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Journal articles on the topic 'Small business – South Africa – Roodepoort (Gauteng)'
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Evelyn Chiloane-Tsoka, Germinah, and Bheki Tshabangu. "An investigation of entrepreneurial skills for contingent employees in small retail businesses as job security determinants." Problems and Perspectives in Management 14, no. 3 (November 10, 2016): 642–49. http://dx.doi.org/10.21511/ppm.14(3-3).2016.07.
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SMEs provide employment to approximately 61 per cent of households in South Africa (SA). Though, entrepreneurial activity rate (TEA) still poses a great concern, at 5.9% which is far below that of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China). Contingent employees in small retail businesses continue to face job insecurity as a result of poor working conditions and un-unionized. This study aims to explore whether contingent employees have entrepreneurial skills for self-employability as an opportunity to offset job insecurity in Roodepoort, SA. Likewise, the study used a quantitative approach and sampled 129 contingent employees from 60 small retail businesses in Roodepoort. Findings revealed that there is a significant relationship between entrepreneurial skills, job insecurity and contingent employees regarding job insecurity. Keywords: contingent employees, SME, job insecurity, unions, entrepreneurial skills, Roodepoort and South Africa. JEL Classification: J46, L26
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Radipere, Simon. "Entrepreneurial Orientation: A Case Of Gauteng Province, South Africa." Foundations of Management 7, no. 1 (June 1, 2015): 169–84. http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/fman-2015-0034.
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Abstract The relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and business performance using 500 small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Gauteng province, South Africa was tested. Questionnaire was used to collect data from 500 SME owners. The findings from the survey among 500 SME owners were modelled through a categorical regression model with business performance as dependent variable. The level of significance of the 8 variables out of 12 variables suggests that entrepreneurial orientation be classified as the strongest predictor of business performance. The ability to adjust one’s business model to adapt to changed economic circumstances is an important thing as it dictates performance in increasingly competitive economic environment.
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van Scheers, Louise, and Maite Mashego. "Determine small farmers’ managerial skill needs in the Tshwane area of Gauteng, South Africa." Investment Management and Financial Innovations 13, no. 2 (June 3, 2016): 87–91. http://dx.doi.org/10.21511/imfi.13(2).2016.09.
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It seems that most small farmers focus on technical skills rather than on conceptual skills, as technical skills are seen to contribute most to the performance of the small farm. The need for this research came from this perception and, therefore, the aim of this article is to determine the small farmers’ managerial skills level in the Tshwane area of Gauteng. A quantitative survey was conducted amongst 50 small farmers in the Tshwane area of Gauteng. The conducted research established that most small farmers focus on technical skills rather than on conceptual skills. Small farmers also indicated that they need training in marketing and financial management which are conceptual skills
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E T, Maziriri, and Chinomona E. "Modeling the Influence of Relationship Marketing, Green Marketing and Innovative Marketing on the Business Performance of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMES)." Journal of Economics and Behavioral Studies 8, no. 3(J) (July 3, 2016): 127–39. http://dx.doi.org/10.22610/jebs.v8i3(j).1294.
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Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are considered as economic engines for many countries. In South Africa, the Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) sector has been acknowledged as the driving force to foster economic growth and job creations. This paper aimed at examining how relationship marketing, green marketing and innovative marketing influence the business performance of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in Southern Gauteng, South Africa. The study utilized a quantitative research paradigm. A structured questionnaire consisting of validated scales for relationship marketing, green marketing, innovative marketing and business performance was administered to a sample of 231 SMMEs managerial employees in the Southern Gauteng region of South Africa. Smart PLS was used to analyze the data and the results indicated that there are positive relationships between the posited research variables. Implications of the findings are discussed and limitations and future research directions are alluded to.
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Worku, Zeleke. "Risk factors for failure in newly established small, micro and medium-sized enterprises in the tourism sector of Gauteng Province, South Africa." Risk Governance and Control: Financial Markets and Institutions 5, no. 4 (2015): 8–18. http://dx.doi.org/10.22495/rgcv5i4art1.
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The annual report issued for the financial year 2013/2014 by the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (2015) shows that the business confidence index of South Africa was equal to 89.3% in January 2015. According to the South African National Department of Tourism (2015), the tourism sector contributed 93 Billion Rand (3%) to the South African GDP in the year 2012. The contribution of the tourism sector was equal to 189.4 Billion Rand in the year 2009. This figure is projected to grow to 499 Billion Rand by the year 2020. According to the South African Small Enterprise Development Agency (2015), newly established and emerging business enterprises conducting business in the tourism sector of Gauteng Province are less viable and efficient in comparison with well-established tourism enterprises. The objective of this study was to identify and quantify risk factors for underperformance and bankruptcy in the tourism sector of Gauteng Province in South Africa. The study was based on data collected from a stratified random sample of size 311 tourism enterprises that operate in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Data was collected on a large number of socio-economic factors that adversely affect entrepreneurial activities in the tourism sector of Gauteng Province. A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analyses was used in the study. Examples of variables on which data was gathered was level of entrepreneurial skills, level of formal education, location of business, duration of experience, amount of capital, number of employees, ability to network with other tourist operators, degree of competition from rival operators, geographical location, category of business, category of entrepreneurial skills, average number of visitors per month, net profit, size of business, market share, access to finance, and degree of support from Government agencies. Results obtained from the study showed that the long-term survival and viability of African entrepreneurs in the tourism industry of Gauteng Province was significantly and adversely affected by the degree of competition from rival operators, poor networking ability, lack of entrepreneurial skills, low capital, and geographical location. The study found that African entrepreneurs in the tourism industry of Gauteng Province lagged behind their white counterparts significantly in terms of networking ability, capital and entrepreneurial skills. In addition, 82% of the 311 African entrepreneurs who participated in the study lacked suitable skills due to their poor and irrelevant academic and vocational background, and that 59% of entrepreneurs had received little or no assistance in terms of mentoring or training opportunities from South African Government agencies.
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Gonsalves, Maruschka, and Jayne M. Rogerson. "Business incubators and green technology: The Gauteng Climate Innovation Centre, South Africa." Urbani izziv Supplement, no. 30 (February 17, 2019): 212–28. http://dx.doi.org/10.5379/urbani-izziv-en-2019-30-supplement-014.
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Business incubators are a vehicle to assist the survival prospects of start-up enterprises, many of which fail in their early years of operation. One special form of business incubator is the Climate Innovation Centre (CIC) which is part of international debates around green economies and appropriate technologies for climatecompatible development. CICs are an intervention to build innovation sites to ameliorate climate change and a highly distinctive form of business incubator in which the explicit focus is upon supporting small business startups allied to the application of green technologies. Using a qualitative approach the article analyses the establishment and operations of the Gauteng Climate Innovation Centre in South Africa. The CICSA in its first five years of operations has been ‘learning through experience’ and introduced a number of changes since its launch in 2012, including an extension of the business incubation programme and an adjusted focus to South Africa’s climate change related ‘green’ issues around energy, water and waste. Although 5 years is too short for a conclusive evaluation of CIC operations the evidence from this research with South African clean-tech enterprises is largely positive and suggests that the assistance provided by the CIC has contributed towards enterprise development.
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N. Ngcobo, Raphael. "Credit provision by banks: a case study analysis of small businesses in South Africa." Banks and Bank Systems 12, no. 4 (November 30, 2017): 65–74. http://dx.doi.org/10.21511/bbs.12(4).2017.06.
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Small business sector is considered as an important economic driver by many countries. In South Africa, small business sector has been acknowledged as the driving force to boost the economic growth and an important source of job creation. This article aims at identifying factors that are a challenge in obtaining bank finance by small businesses in South Africa.Primary data for this study involved a survey questionnaire directed to owners of small businesses operating in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan area, Gauteng, South Africa. Factors that were deemed to influence bank loan decision were examined. The research findings revealed that factors such as age of business, business plans availability, educational background of business owner, experience of business owner and availability of a collateral have an influence on the bank loan decisions. This research also found that the accessibility of loan funding from banks was a constraint on business operations and growth. The findings of this study indicate that the mentioned factors are a challenge for small businesses in accessing bank loans to fund their operations.The findings of this study will be of great value to small business owners and policy makers in finding solutions to address the identified barriers.
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Madzimure, Jeremiah. "THE COMPLIANCE CHALLENGES OF SMALL, MEDIUM AND MICRO ENTERPRISES IN SOUTH AFRICA." EURASIAN JOURNAL OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT 8, no. 3 (2020): 182–90. http://dx.doi.org/10.15604/ejbm.2020.08.03.002.
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The Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) play a crucial role in the development of South African economy through job creation and improving the standard of living. Despite their importance, majority of these SMMEs are facing compliance challenges. The study seeks to identify compliance challenges of SMMEs in terms of the company act and the impact on their ability to conduct business while remaining competitive and legal in South Africa. This study was conducted in Gauteng province of South Africa. The study applied a qualitative, interpretive approach. The thematic analysis through inductive process was used to analyze the interview responses collected from the participants. The main findings reveal that the uneven business environment has rendered the prosperity and growth of small business impossible. That impossibility is attributed to the lack of capacity and skill to comply with the burden of the company act, given the uneven ground of competition on which large enterprises are more experienced and resourceful. The value of this study is the proposed solution to the current compliance challenges which most SMMEs face and impede their growth. The study recommends that the government offer tax rebates and incentives for SMMEs.
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Makhitha, Khathutshelo. "Supply Chain Practices And Challenges In The Craft Industry In Gauteng, South Africa." Journal of Applied Business Research (JABR) 31, no. 6 (October 28, 2015): 2197. http://dx.doi.org/10.19030/jabr.v31i6.9477.
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Craft producers in South Africa (SA) face many challenges including supply chain challenges. There is no existing study that has investigated the supply chain management of the craft industry in SA. There is also dearth of literature on supply chain management of small businesses. The purpose of this study was to investigate the supply chain practices and challenges of craft producers in South Africa. A survey was conducted among 199 craft producers in Gauteng, South Africa. A convenience sampling method was adopted owing to the difficulty of accessing a reliable database of craft producers. Craft producers rely mainly on phones for customers to place orders. However, they use variety of methods for order placement. Customers are allowed to also visit the factory to buy products and they can buy at the exhibition. They use a variety of production methods. Due to transportation challenges, craft producers also make use of public transport to deliver goods and keep some products at the warehouse.
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Sandada, Maxwell, David Pooe, and Manilall Dhurup. "Strategic Planning And Its Relationship With Business Performance Among Small And Medium Enterprises In South Africa." International Business & Economics Research Journal (IBER) 13, no. 3 (April 28, 2014): 659. http://dx.doi.org/10.19030/iber.v13i3.8602.
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Strategic planning is a business tool that small and medium businesses need in todays dynamic and highly competitive business environment. It has a potential to cushion these enterprises from such unpredictable harsh business conditions. The purpose of this paper was to establish the relationship between strategic planning practices and business performance among SMEs in the Gauteng province of South Africa. Data were analysed from 200 useable questionnaires that were distributed to SME owners/managers. Factor analysis, correlations, and regression techniques were used in order to extract the dimensions of strategic planning and their relationships with business performance. Environmental scanning, business mission and vision, formality of strategic plans, evaluation and control, informing sourcing, strategy implementation incentives, employee participation, and time horizons emerged as strategic planning dimensions. The results confirm that strategic planning has a positive association and predictive relationship with the performance of SMEs. The results of this study can serve as a guide to SME owners and managers to properly implement strategic planning practices which will enable them to propel and sustain their businesses in turbulent and uncertain business environments.
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Chinomona, Richard. "The Influence of Supplier Involvement on Communication, Relationship Longevity and Business Performance in Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises in South Africa." Journal of Economics and Behavioral Studies 7, no. 3(J) (June 30, 2015): 63–75. http://dx.doi.org/10.22610/jebs.v7i3(j).583.
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Most firms are increasingly realizing the benefits of involving the outside suppliers by considering their manufacturing processes and technological capabilities, especially regarding quality, time to market, configuration, control and cost. Nevertheless, in the context of small to medium enterprises (SMEs), scant attention has been given to the empirical investigation into the influence of supplier involvement on business performance. The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of supplier involvement on business performance and the mediating role of communication and relationship longevity among SMEs in South Africa. Five hypotheses were posited and sample data of 302 were collected from Gauteng Province of South Africa, to empirically test these hypotheses. The results of this study showed that, supplier involvement has influence on communication, relationship longevity and business performance in SMEs context in South Africa. The managerial implications of the findings are discussed and limitations and future research directions are indicated.
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Venter, Jan, and B. De Clerq. "Tax compliance burden for small, medium and micro establishments in the business services industry." South African Journal of Economic and Management Sciences 10, no. 1 (February 21, 2013): 72–88. http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajems.v10i1.537.
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The aim of this study is to determine whether the size of a business, classified as small, medium or micro establishment (SMME), has an impact on its management of the compliance burden placed on it by taxation laws. A survey was conducted amongst small, medium and micro establishments in the business services sector in Gauteng province, South Africa. The study finds that the majority of SMMEs in the business services sector outsource their tax responsibilities due to lack of skills and time. Also, the significance of taxation inputs for making business decisions and preferences for administrative relief measures varies according to the size of the organisation.
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Garg, Ajay K., and Peter Letsolo. "Gender, Risk-Taking Propensity and Culture of Entrepreneurs at Small and Medium Enterprises in Gauteng." Journal of Economics and Behavioral Studies 8, no. 3(J) (July 3, 2016): 41–47. http://dx.doi.org/10.22610/jebs.v8i3(j).1287.
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This study analyzed the risk-taking propensity amongst the four cultural groups and its impact on the business performance, from a sample of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) within the Gauteng Province of South Africa. The data was collected using two sets of questionnaire measuring risk taking propensity and perceived business performance. 83 responses were returned from 400 respondents. The results indicate that male on average show higher risk taking, while difference in risk taking propensity between male and female was not statistically significant. A very weak or no correlation between risk taking and business performance scores for both the genders were found, indicating that gender and culture does not play a role in the relationship between risk taking and business performance. However study found that there was significant difference in risk taking behavior by different culture groups, Zimbabweans were the highest risk takers, while Chinese, Pakistanis and South Africans differed in their risk taking behavior.
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Radipere, Simon, and Watson Ladzani. "The effects of entrepreneurial intention on business performance." Journal of Governance and Regulation 3, no. 4 (2014): 210–22. http://dx.doi.org/10.22495/jgr_v3_i4_c2_p4.
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The study examined the relationship between entrepreneurial intention and business performance using 500 small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) in Gauteng province, South Africa. A questionnaire was used to collect data. The findings from the survey were modelled through a categorical regression model with business performance as a dependent variable. The level of significance of eight out of twelve variables suggests that entrepreneurial intention be classified as the strongest predictor of business performance. These findings, depicting the magnitude of the business environment in the study area, clearly confirm the positive impact of entrepreneurial intention on business performance.
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Twum-Darko, Michael, and Jabu Lucky Sibanyoni. "Role of cloud computing as technology innovation in small and medium enterprises in South Africa." Corporate Ownership and Control 12, no. 1 (2014): 557–71. http://dx.doi.org/10.22495/cocv12i1c6p3.
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The paper discusses cloud computing as a technology innovation for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa to improve competitiveness, retain sustainability and maintain cost-effectively. The concept of duality of structures (DoS) of Giddens’ Structuration Theory was used as a lens through which to understand and interpret the factors influencing the readiness of SMEs to adopt cloud computing as a lens to innovate their businesses and become competitive in the face of global economic slowdown, high cost of IT services and inadequate e-competency. The purpose of the study was to determine the readiness of SMEs to innovate their businesses using technology solutions such as cloud computing. An extensive investigation on sixteen (16) SMEs from Gauteng and Mpumalang Provinces indicated a number of factors suggested by DoS have influenced the readiness of SMEs to adopt technology. The perspective is that clouding computing adoption as a technology innovation suggests a significant trend with the potential to increase agility and lower costs of IT services. The finding of the study is a general framework to guide SMEs to assess their readiness to adopting these technologies to save costs, improve their efficiency and competitive position
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Selaelo Maesela, Pabalelo, Taurai Hungwe, and Solly Matshonisa Seeletse. "Mysteries of success for small and medium enterprises in Ga-Rankuwa Township of Pretoria in Gauteng Province, South Africa." Environmental Economics 7, no. 1 (March 24, 2016): 47–52. http://dx.doi.org/10.21511/ee.07(1).2016.06.
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The small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are important to the South African economy and social development. This paper discusses the case of Ga-Rankuwa Township SMEs, causes of their proven failure and the methods used by the SMEs owned by people who came from foreign countries and operating in this township. These foreign SMEs did not have access to loans for business. On the other hand the local ones could apply for the loans but many did not know how and where. The locals then forfeited the opportunity, but still refused to partner with foreign ones who could assist them. The foreign ones were more successful in using business skills and knowledge to nurture their SMEs. They also contributed to the township’s economy by employing local people. Recommendations include that local SMEs should partner with foreign ones to develop synergies, and that the SME agency, Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) should design policies for foreign SME access to business loan funds by ensuring and enforcing local empowerment as part of their loan access package
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Rundora, Rosebud, Toekie Ziemerink, and Merwe Oberholzer. "Activity-Based Costing In Small Manufacturing Firms: South African Study." Journal of Applied Business Research (JABR) 29, no. 2 (February 13, 2013): 485. http://dx.doi.org/10.19030/jabr.v29i2.7652.
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This is an empirical investigation by means of a survey of the experiences and perceptions of activity-based costing (ABC), as an alternative to traditional costing, in small manufacturing firms in the Southern Gauteng region of South Africa. The objectives of the study were to determine the: Extent to which ABC is adopted; Perceptions of the benefits and the barriers of ABC; Experiences regarding the practice of ABC; and Reasons why firms do not adopt ABC. An analysis of 48 questionnaires indicated that 16 firms implemented ABC whilst 32 did not adopt this approach. The study firstly found that the ABC users have been in business significantly longer than the non-users, ABC users firms are significantly larger than the non-users firms, there are some significant differences in the perceptions between the users and non-users regarding the benefits and the barriers of implementing ABC, that the ABC users are to a great extent neutral in respect of the practical issues of ABC and finally, that the non-users of ABC are of the opinion that ABC is too expensive to implement. The contribution of this study is that it fills the gap regarding to the lack of empirical research of ABC in small manufacturing firms and especially the lack of empirical research on ABC in South African firms.
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AlKhajeh, Mahdi Hasan Ahmed, and Azam Abdelhakeem Khalid. "Management Accounting Practices (MAPs) Impact on Small and Medium Enterprise Business Performance within the Gauteng Province of South Africa." Journal of Accounting and Auditing: Research & Practice 2018 (July 6, 2018): 1–8. http://dx.doi.org/10.5171/2018.345766.
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Worku, Zeleke. "Risk factors for failure in small businesses in the footwear and textile industry of Gauteng Province, South Africa." Risk Governance and Control: Financial Markets and Institutions 5, no. 3 (2015): 114–25. http://dx.doi.org/10.22495/rgcv5i3c1art3.
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The study was based on the 5-yearlong study (2007 to 2012) of Small, Micro and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMMEs) that conduct business in Gauteng Province, South Africa conducted by Marivate (2014) from 2007 to 2012. The sample consisted of 187 businesses (36.52%) that utilized financial services routinely provided by the South African Small Enterprises Development Agency (SEDA), and 325 businesses (63.48%) that utilized non-financial services provided by SEDA. Out of the 187 businesses that utilized financial services, 85.42% of them were viable, whereas 14.58% of them were not viable. Out of the 325 businesses that utilized non-financial services, 43.25% of them were viable, whereas 56.75% of them were not viable. The degree of entrepreneurial skills in each of the 512 businesses that were selected for the study was measured by using a composite index defined by Le Brasseur, Zannibbi & Zinger (2013). The multilevel logistic regression model (Hosmer and Lemeshow) was used for identifying and quantifying predictors of utilization of financial and non-financial services provided by SEDA to SMMEs. Predictors of long-term survival were estimated by using the Cox Proportional Hazards Model (Cleves, Gould & Gutierrez, 2004). The results showed that the 187 businesses that utilized financial services (36.52%) were relatively more viable in comparison with businesses that utilized non-financial services (63.48%). Results obtained from the Cox Proportional Hazards Model showed that long-term viability in the 512 businesses that were selected for the study was significantly influenced by utilization of financial services, degree of entrepreneurial skills, and the ability to order large volumes of stock in bulk, in a decreasing order of strength. The top 3 predictors of utilization of financial services in the 187 businesses that utilized financial services were degree of entrepreneurial skills, the ability to order large volumes of stock in bulk, and access to training opportunities on entrepreneurial or vocational skills, in a decreasing order of strength. The top 3 predictors of utilization of non-financial services in the 325 businesses that utilized non-financial services were the age of business, past history of bankruptcy, and the practice of selling on credit, in a decreasing order of strength.
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Khosa, Risimati Maurice. "Intra-transfer of ownership factors and external transfer of ownership effects: evidence from the Gauteng enterprising community, South Africa." Journal of Enterprising Communities: People and Places in the Global Economy 14, no. 5 (October 14, 2020): 765–85. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/jec-04-2020-0053.
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Purpose This paper aims to determine the perceptions of family-owned small enterprises on the external transfer of ownership and intra-transfer of ownership using empirical data. This permitted the research to successfully point out the factors that influence the internal transfer of ownership, and also, the effects of intra-transfer of ownership from a viewpoint of both family members and non-family members in small family-owned enterprises. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research design was used to conduct this research, where primary data was gathered from a sample of 257 respondents using convenience and snowball sampling techniques. Data was collected through a survey instrument distributed via internet-based surveys (SurveyMonkey) and through a drop-off method. The gathered data was then captured, coded and analysed using Stata (version 15) statistical software. Findings The results divulged that intra or internal transfer of ownership is the preferred avenue compared to external transfer of ownership. This is because, when a family business is transferred to the next generation, it presents some benefits to family members working in the business and to the family at large. As a result, the empirical results show that factors that influence the internal transfer of ownership include: favouritism; security, stability and growth; a formal and structured succession plan. Business improvement and organisational change are then the effects of external transfer ownership. Although these effects make business sense, family members will advocate for internal transfer of ownership for them not to lose the benefits that come with the internal transfer of ownership. Research limitations/implications This paper adds to the current family business research in South Africa, thus reducing the shortage of such research. Moreover, the paper proposes further research that will provide tested, practical and detailed guidelines of survival in the next generation. Practical implications The paper empirically highlights the perils of selecting a successor based on favouritism rather than merit and possible consequences, thereby assisting those involved in family enterprise succession to make an informed decision when choosing a successor. Originality/value This research paper provides empirical evidence of the internal transfer of ownership factors and external transfer of ownership effects from a South African perspective.
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Van der Walt, JL, J. Kroon, and BJ Fourie. "The importance of a vision and mission for small, medium-sized and large businesses." South African Journal of Economic and Management Sciences 7, no. 2 (April 28, 2004): 206–20. http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajems.v7i2.1373.
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Although the vision and mission are important to the strategic planning of a business and much time and effort are spent on their formulation, they aren’t used as planning instruments. The purpose of this paper was to determine whether management understands the vision and mission as complementary concepts and whether they use them effectively in the planning process. This study was conducted by sending questionnaires to businesses in the Gauteng Province where most SMEs in South Africa are situated. Findings confirmed that the majority of businesses, especially small businesses, can distinguish between and have visions and missions, but do not apply them optimally in strategy implementation. Recommendations include that businesses should have a written vision and mission statement, which should be communicated effectively and applied in planning and strategy implementation.
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URBAN, BORIS, and BRIAN NDOU. "INFORMAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP: A FOCUS ON SOUTH AFRICAN TOWNSHIP ENTREPRENEURS." Journal of Developmental Entrepreneurship 24, no. 04 (December 2019): 1950021. http://dx.doi.org/10.1142/s1084946719500213.
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The informal sector is increasingly recognized in terms of its entrepreneurial potential. However there is a general lack of empirical research on small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) effectiveness in the informal economy in Africa. Recognizing this research gap, this article investigates entrepreneurial enabling factors in the South African township context to determine their impact on SMME’s performance. Township-based SMMEs in South Africa’s largest province, Gauteng, are surveyed and hypotheses are tested with correlation and regression analyses. Results indicate that access to finance and markets, institutional support, and skill and competency development are all significant predictors of enterprise performance. Empirical investigations in under-researched African contexts are important to highlight differences in enabling factors when compared to western contexts. In South African townships, which are plagued by high inequality, poverty, high unemployment and several other socio-economic challenges, it is an important policy which takes into account the variety of enabling environment factors that impact enterprise performance.
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Omoruyi, Osayuwamen, and Chengedzai Mafini. "Supply Chain Management and Customer Satisfaction in Small to Medium Enterprises." Studia Universitatis Babe-Bolyai Oeconomica 61, no. 3 (December 1, 2016): 43–58. http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/subboec-2016-0004.
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Abstract To circumvent the possibility of business failure, small to medium enterprises in emerging economies face mounting pressure to increase the satisfaction of their customers. The adoption of supply chain management practices is critical to the provision of quality products and services as well as the satisfaction of customers by small to medium enterprises. This paper investigated the relationship between customer satisfaction, supply chain management practices and three input factors; namely, product quality, flexibility and product variety in small to medium enterprises. The study adopted a quantitative approach in which a four section questionnaire was distributed to 131 managers in small to medium enterprises based in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Hypotheses were tested using regression analysis. The results of the study revealed that product quality and flexibility predicted supply chain management practices. Supply chain management practices were also statistically significant, and mediated the relationship between customer satisfaction and product quality and flexibility. Based on these results, conclusions were drawn and appropriate recommendations were made.
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C. Cant, Michael, and Johannes A. Wiid. "The use of traditional marketing tools by SMEs in an emerging economy: a South African perspective." Problems and Perspectives in Management 14, no. 1 (March 2, 2016): 64–70. http://dx.doi.org/10.21511/ppm.14(1).2016.07.
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Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in all economies around the world, they are responsible for creating of jobs, alleviating of poverty, contributing to innovation and to the gross domestic product of a country. However, many of these businesses face challenges and often fail within a short period of time. The success of small businesses is not only having products and a market to sell them to but also effective marketing of these products to the targeted market. A vast array of studies have investigated SME marketing tool usage however few have looked to SMEs in emerging economies and specifically to the traditional marketing tools such firms employ. Therefore the focus of this study was to describe the usage of traditional marketing tools employed by SMEs from a South African perspective. This study followed a quantitative research methodology whereby a self-administered questionnaire was distributed to SME owners within the Gauteng province of South Africa. Results obtained from this research indicate that SME owners mostly make use of print media while broadcast media is used selectively. Results obtained within this study will be of value universally to SME owners as it can be seen that all SMEs irrespective of geographic location face similar challenges
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Mathu, K., and M. T. Tlare. "The impact of IT adoption in SMEs supply chains: A case of Gauteng and Free State provinces of South Africa." South African Journal of Business Management 48, no. 3 (September 29, 2017): 63–71. http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajbm.v48i3.36.
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This study probed the influence of information technology adoption by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Gauteng and Free State Provinces of South Africa. The supply chain integration and collaboration of the SMEs was also explored to ascertain the IT influence. A quantitative methodology was used as it was the best way to measure the extent of the information technology (IT) influence. The participants were sent questionnaires via the e-mail and provided feedback to the researcher via the same medium. The sample size of 300 comprised the owner/manager in the manufacturing and service sector SMEs from the two provinces. The data collected was analysed using a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) method and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) using AMOS 22 Statistical Analysis software. The findings from the study indicated that information technology adoption enhanced integration and collaboration of SMEs supply chain. It also emerged that there was wide application of information technology amongst most of the SMEs approached. The other benefits that emerged from the increased use of IT in the supply chain included enhancement of customer service, inventory management, lead time, and relationship building. Indeed, Instilling IT skills to the SMEs employees was actually knowledge enhancement in performing business tasks.
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Chinomona, Richard. "Brand communication, brand image and brand trust as antecedents of brand loyalty in Gauteng Province of South Africa." African Journal of Economic and Management Studies 7, no. 1 (March 14, 2016): 124–39. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/ajems-03-2013-0031.
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Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of brand communication, brand image and brand trust as potential antecedents of brand loyalty in a sample of consumers in Gauteng Province of South Africa. Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected from 151 respondents, an 89 per cent response rate, using anonymously completed questionnaires. Research scales were operationalized on the basis of previous work. Data were collected from 151 respondents, an 89 per cent response rate, using anonymously completed questionnaires. Research scales were operationalized on the basis of previous work. Proper modifications were made in order to fit the current research context and purpose. “Brand communication” measure used six-item scales while “Brand image” used eight-item scale measure. “Brand trust” and “brand loyalty” used a four-item scale measure. All the measurement items were measured on a five point Likert-type scales that was anchored by 1=strongly disagree to 5=strongly agree to express the degree of agreement. Findings – The four posited hypotheses were empirically tested. The results supported all the hypotheses in a significant way except one (H2). Important to note about the study findings is the fact that brand communication has a stronger effects on brand image than on brand trust. However, brand image strongly influences brand trust. Notably too, the relationship between brand trust and brand loyalty is robust. This finding indicates that brand communication can have a strong influence on brand trust and brand loyalty via brand image. Perhaps this could be due to the fact that customers are likely to trust and be more loyal to brands with good image and reputation. Research limitations/implications – Despite the usefulness of this study aforementioned, the research has its limitations. Most significantly, the sample size was small and limited to Gauteng Province of South Africa. The study can be strengthened by increasing the sample size and including participants in other geographical areas. Future studies can also attempt to compare the perceptions of customers on the current study antecedents of brand loyalty from non-durable/FMCG to other product/service categories groups. Practical implications – The findings of this empirical study are expected to have to provide fruitful implications to both practitioners and academicians. On the academic side, this study makes a significant contribution to the brand management literature by systematically exploring the impact of brand communication on brand image, brand trust and brand loyalty in South Africa. On the practitioners’ side, this study therefore submits that marketers ought to pay attention to both brand communication and brand image in order to build customer brand trust. By increasing the perceived level of brand image through effective brand communication, marketers will be able gain customer brand trust. Eventually, the customers will become loyal to a brand they perceive to trustworthy. In this regard, from a policy perspective, it is recommended that managers and business strategists ought to develop policies and strategies aimed at winning customers brand loyal or increasing customers’ brand trust since such an endeavour is likely to lead to customer retention and marketing cost reduction. There is growing evidence in the extent literature indication that loyal customers are likely to share their experience with brands with their peers through “word of mouth” (WOM) (Bennetta et al., 2005; Zehir et al., 2011; Russell-Bennett et al., 2013). At the same time, the society will tend to benefit from such information shared by their peers based on their brand experience. Originality/value – Overall, the current study findings provide tentative support to the proposition that brand communication, brand image and brand trust should be recognized as significant antecedents for gaining and sustaining brand loyalty in South Africa. This study therefore, stand to immensely contribute new knowledge to the existing body of brand management literature in Africa – a context that is often most neglected by some researchers in developing countries.
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Worku, Zeleke. "The impact of service quality on the viability of start-up businesses." Corporate Ownership and Control 13, no. 3 (2016): 518–22. http://dx.doi.org/10.22495/cocv13i3c3p10.
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A 3-year long survey was conducted in the Tshwane geographical region of Gauteng Province in South Africa in order to identify and quantify key predictors of adequate municipal services that are routinely provided to customers who operate newly established small businesses in the City of Tshwane, Pretoria, South Africa. Data was collected by using a structured, pre-tested and validated questionnaire of study from a stratified random sample of size 1, 058 small businesses. The key objective of study was to assess the relationship between viability in small businesses and the provision of quality municipal services by the City of Tshwane. The study was conducted against the background of a high failure rate among newly established small businesses in the City of Tshwane. The study was conducted over a 3-year period (2012 to 2014). Data was collected monthly during the three-year period of study on socioeconomic variables that are known to affect the perception of business operators on the quality of municipal services to business operators and the general public. Statistical procedures such as cross-tab analyses, panel data analysis, Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithms and Bayesian methods were used for estimating parameters. The study showed that there was a significant association between positive perception of business operators on the quality of municipal services provided to them and viability of businesses. The results showed that 87% of viable businesses were satisfied with the quality of routine municipal services that were provided to them by the City of Tshwane. The corresponding figure for non-viable businesses was only 14%. The viability of businesses was significantly influenced by 3 predictor variables. These predictor variables were: lack of capacity for fulfilling the business and entrepreneurial needs of newly established businesses [Hazard Ratio = 3.58; P=0.000; 95% C. I. = (1.45, 5.46)], inappropriate policy [Hazard Ratio = 3.19; P=0.000; 95% C. I. = (1.39, 5.28)], and lack of tailor made training programmes directed at newly established small businesses [Hazard Ratio = 2.89; P=0.000; 95% C. I. = (1.24, 4.77)], in a decreasing order of strength. Similar findings were obtained from the analyses of in-depth interviews.
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Mafini, Chengedzai, and Osayuwamen Omoruyi. "Logistics benefits and challenges: The case of SMEs in a South African local municipality." Southern African Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management 6, no. 1 (December 31, 2013): 145. http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajesbm.v6i1.38.
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<p>Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the lifeblood of every economy. However, in order for them to sustain their role of contributing to the mainstream economy, SMEs have to implement effective strategies in all of their business operations, inclusive of logistics. The function of logistics is important to SMEs because it is the quintessence of the organisation’s relationship with suppliers and customers. The aim of this study was to investigate the challenges encountered as well as the benefits realised by SMEs during the implementation of logistics strategies. A quantitative approach using the cross-sectional descriptive survey technique was used in which a three-section questionnaire was administered to a randomly selected sample of 131 SME owners and managers in Emfuleni Local Municipality in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Data analysis was conducted using simple descriptive statistics. The results of the study reveal that financial constraints, the lack of logistics skills among the workforce, high costs of information technology and rapid technological advancements were the most important challenges to SMEs. Challenges related to inventory and environmental management emerged as the least relevant. Enhanced competitive advantage, increased sales and a reduction in operational costs were the most important benefits to SMEs. Reduction in labour turnover and innovation emerged as the least important benefits. Based on the findings, several recommendations were proposed.</p><p><strong>Key Words:</strong> SME, benefits, challenges, Emfuleni Local Municipality</p>
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Hove, George, and Adewale Banjo. "Perceptions of small business executives on determinants of performance in the construction industry in Gauteng, South Africa." Acta Commercii 18, no. 1 (May 9, 2018). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/ac.v18i1.528.
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Orientation: The South African (SA) government expects emerging contractors (ECs) to become the main players in economic transformation and growth, job creation and income generation. However, ECs fail to live up to the expectations as some are characterised by low performance levels and are at risk of business closure.Research purpose: The purpose of this research was to examine the perceptions of small business executives (SBEs) on determinants of ECs’ performance so that a performance model that could guide ECs in the construction industry is developed.Motivation for the study: Despite the significance of ECs to the SA economy, researchers have constantly omitted to identify and examine the role played by the perceptions of SBEs on the determinants of performance and this gap in the body of knowledge would be closed by this study.Research design, approach and method: A mixed approach was used to examine the perceptions of SBEs on determinants of performance by applying both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. Data were obtained from 433 urban based ECs registered with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) in the construction industry in Gauteng Province. A structured questionnaire and an interview guide were administered as the data collection instruments. Content analysis, regression analysis and multiple linear regressions were performed.Main findings: The analysis of qualitative data demonstrated the perceptions of SBEs that financial factors, manpower, materials, machinery and equipment, project implementation, quality of work, legal and environmental factors and strategic planning were the determinants of ECs’ performance. Multiple linear regressions carried out based on the perceptions of SBEs identified strategic planning, project implementation and project performance as the most statistically significant factors in predicting the performance of ECs in Gauteng Province.Contribution and value add: Based on perceptual analysis of the ECs and multivariate results, a performance prediction model was developed. Furthermore, a new set of significant determinants of performance as perceived by SBEs in South Africa’s (Gauteng Province) construction industry was established.
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Mlotshwa, Semukele H., and Jabulile Msimango-Galawe. "The risk of overvaluing networking on small and medium enterprises performance in Gauteng province, South Africa." Southern African Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management 12, no. 1 (March 3, 2020). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajesbm.v12i1.294.
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Background: Several studies have been conducted to investigate the relationship between networking and performance, but unfortunately findings have been inconclusive. Nevertheless, networking has been recognised as a vital element for enhancing competitiveness amongst small and medium enterprises (SMEs).Aim: The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of different forms of networking, networking activities and the perceived importance of networking on SME performance.Setting: The study was conducted in South Africa, more specifically on entrepreneurs who have SMEs operating in the Gauteng province.Methods: This was a quantitative study with a cross-sectional research design on a sample size of 304. Multiple linear regression was employed as the core statistical technique to analyse the primary data.Results: It was evident that the more value entrepreneurs put on networking, the lesser their businesses performed, as the relationship became negative. However, the more they got involved in networking activities and maintained the relationships, the better their businesses performed. It was interesting to note that social, business and managerial network forms emerged as one form of networking, which we have named business networking. However, the importance and maintenance of networks were very distinct as networks were valued higher than what we saw from the maintenance and participation in networking.Conclusion: The study does not suggest that networking is irrelevant. However, it argues that this might be reflecting the risk of overvaluing networks. It is evident that networking influences performance of SMEs irrespective of whether it is social, business or managerial.
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Esterhuyzen, Elriza. "Small business barriers to occupational health and safety compliance." Southern African Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management 11, no. 1 (August 1, 2019). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajesbm.v11i1.233.
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Background: The Constitution of South Africa indicates that all people have the right to an environment that is not harmful to their health and well-being. This right is reiterated in the Occupational Health and Safety Act 83 of 1993. However, small business owners and/or managers experience specific barriers to occupational health and safety (OHS) compliance. The study was conducted in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape provinces of South Africa, as these three provinces account for 82% of active businesses in South Africa.Objective: This article discusses barriers to OHS compliance as perceived by South African small business owners and/or managers.Method: A total of 350 small business owners and/or managers from the three above-mentioned provinces participated in a questionnaire survey, with one section focussing on barriers to OHS compliance. Participants rated 11 predetermined barriers to OHS compliance and could indicate and rate additional barriers. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to report on these perceived barriers.Results: Results indicated that the perceived barriers to OHS compliance can be categorised as human and resource barriers.Conclusion: South African small business owners and/or managers experience barriers to compliance that prevent them from full compliance with OHS directives, which can be costly. Small business owners and/or managers need to take cognisance of applicable OHS directives as well as identified barriers to compliance. These barriers need to be addressed to allow small businesses to comply with OHS directives and to enhance the sustainability of small businesses. The question is not whether small businesses can afford OHS compliance, but if they can afford not to overcome barriers and comply.
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Chinomona, Richard, and R. I. David Pooe. "The influence of logistics integration on information sharing and business performance: The case of small and medium enterprises in South Africa." Journal of Transport and Supply Chain Management 7, no. 1 (May 31, 2013). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/jtscm.v7i1.92.
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Logistics integration across partnering firms has become the backbone of supply chain management as it facilitates information sharing, which is required in order to enhance business performance. This study investigated the mediatory role of information sharing on the relationships between logistics integration and business performance within the small and medium enterprise (SME) context. Five research hypotheses were postulated and the hypotheses were empirically tested using sample data from the SME sector in South Africa’s Gauteng Province. The results indicated that logistics integration positively influences information sharing and business performance in a significant way within the context of South African SMEs. Managerial implications of the findings are discussed, whilst limitations and future research directions are indicated.
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Potgieter, Ingrid L., and Segopotse E. Mokomane. "Implementation of human resource management functions in selected small manufacturing companies in Ga-Rankuwa industrial area, Gauteng, South Africa." SA Journal of Human Resource Management 18 (August 31, 2020). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajhrm.v18i0.1282.
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Orientation: Human resource management (HRM) is a fundamental element in the success of any organisation. Research on HRM functions in medium and large organisations has been given much attention. However, few research studies have been conducted in assessing the importance and implementation of HRM functions in small companies.Research purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate the implementation of HRM functions and its perceived importance in small manufacturing companies (SMC), as well as the limitations or barriers to effective HRM implementation in SMCs.The motivation for the study: Human resource management functions play a strategic role in any organisation. Literature studies indicate that relatively little is known about HRM functions in small businesses. This research aimed to contribute to the knowledge of HRM and enhance the understanding and importance of the HRM functions in SMCs.Research approach/design and method: A qualitative research design was followed. A convenience sampling technique was used with eight participants. Data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews.Main findings: The HRM functions of recruitment and orientation, general labour relations, human resource information systems (HRIS), performance management, training and development, and remuneration and benefit were informally implemented and acknowledged as crucial in SMCs. The study further found that a limited budget, lack of resources and capacity, inadequate systems, ineffective employment relationships, lack of knowledge and understanding of HRM functions and business instability negatively affect SMCs to implement all HRM functions within the business and therefore negatively influence the performance of the company.Practical/managerial implications: All managers/owners and employees are aware of all the HRM functions that could enhance the performance and success of their organisation.Contribution/value-add: The study findings will assist SMCs to implement and understand the importance of HRM functions as well as the barriers to effective implementation of HRM functions.
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Epoh, Louis R., and Chengedzai Mafini. "Green supply chain management in small and medium enterprises: Further empirical thoughts from South Africa." Journal of Transport and Supply Chain Management 12 (June 21, 2018). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/jtscm.v12i0.393.
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Background: For South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to gain and maintain competitive advantages and succeed, they have to change their practices and adapt their strategies to the dynamic environment of today. A better understanding and application of green supply chain management practices by SMEs could enable such enterprises to improve their performance and succeed in their operations.Objectives: This study aimed to analyse the relationship between green supply chain management, environmental performance and supply chain performance in South African SMEs.Method: A conceptual model was proposed and subjected to empirical verification using data collected from SMEs based in Gauteng province. The structural equation modelling procedure was used to test hypotheses in the proposed relationships in SMEs within different industries.Results: The results of the study indicated mixed outcomes. No relationships were found between environmental performance and two green supply chain dimensions, namely green purchasing and eco-design. However, the remaining dimensions of green supply chain management, namely reverse logistics and legislation and regulation, positively and significantly predicted environmental performance. In turn, environmental performance positively and significantly predicted supply chain performance.Conclusion: Integrating green supply chain management practices, especially reverse logistics and adherence to legislation and regulation into the SME business strategy, leads to the improvement of environmental and overall supply chain performance.
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Voortman, Craig, and K. Mercy Makhitha. "The alignment of product strategy to supply chain practices of craft businesses in Gauteng Province, South Africa." Journal of Transport and Supply Chain Management 8, no. 1 (March 17, 2014). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/jtscm.v8i1.126.
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External factors such as blurring market boundaries, escalating customer diversity and increasing global competitive threats have forced businesses to build strategies around key products and formulate market-driven strategies that are integrated with relationship and supply chain strategies to deliver superior customer value. Indeed, in the modern era of supply chain management, organisations are getting more integrated with their suppliers and customers as a way to manage the total supply chain. The purpose of this research was to determine if product strategies and supply chain practices of small craft business are aligned. Personal in-depth interviews were conducted with nine craft businesses operating in Gauteng Province, South Africa. The findings revealed that craft businesses struggle to match their product strategies with their supply chain strategies. Craft businesses also exhibited some inbound supply chain weaknesses.
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Sibisi, Nobuntu, and Anoosha Makka. "Financial challenges experienced by South African non-profit organisations regarding CSR implementation." Social Responsibility Journal ahead-of-print, ahead-of-print (July 8, 2021). http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/srj-12-2019-0397.
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Purpose The purpose of this paper is to understand the financial challenges experienced by non-profit organisations (NPOs) when implementing corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in South Africa. These challenges have a negative impact on NPOs because they impede the successful implementation of CSR projects. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative research method and a purposive sampling strategy were used in this study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 employees from three NPOs in South Africa from the education, enterprise development and health and social development sectors. Content analysis was used to examine the data. Findings The findings revealed that NPOs in South Africa experience serious financial resource challenges, notably, overreliance on donor funding; difficulty in obtaining donor funding; limited donor funding available; intense competition from other non NPOs to secure donor funding; donors unwilling to fund operational costs and prescribing exactly how funds should be used; and donors signing non-binding contracts on the provision of funding. Research limitations/implications The sample size of the study was small, namely, three NPOs from Gauteng Province (Johannesburg) in South Africa. Therefore, this study covered only one geographic area of South Africa and the findings cannot be generalised across other provinces of the country. Practical implications The results of this study could have implications for donors and NPO employees involved in CSR activities in South Africa. Originality/value This study bridges a gap in literature by revealing the key financial challenges experienced by South African NPOs in implementing CSR initiatives and the impact of those challenges on their CSR efforts.
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Mafini, Chengedzai, and Welby V. Loury-Okoumba. "Extending green supply chain management activities to manufacturing small and medium enterprises in a developing economy." South African Journal of Economic and Management Sciences 21, no. 1 (May 22, 2018). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajems.v21i1.1996.
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Background: The implementation of green supply chain management activities as a business strategy remains unfamiliar to many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in developing countries such as South Africa. Setting: Implementation of green supply chain management activities by South African SMEs is necessary, given both the high failure rate of such enterprises in the country and the proven ability of such activities to promote the success of businesses. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between green supply chain management activities, operational performance and supply chain performance in manufacturing SMEs in South Africa. Methods: Data were collected from 219 manufacturing SMEs operating within Gauteng. A confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to assess the psychometric properties of measurement scales. Hypotheses were tested using structural equation modelling. Results: Four green supply chain management activities, namely green purchasing, reverse logistics, environmental collaboration with suppliers and green manufacturing, exerted a positive influence on operational performance. Environmental collaboration with suppliers exerted the highest influence on operational performance when compared to green purchasing, reverse logistics and green manufacturing. In turn, operational performance exerted a strong positive influence on supply chain performance. Conclusion: The results of the study suggest that manufacturing SMEs in developing countries could benefit by adopting green supply chain management activities, with improvements being realised in terms of increases in both operational and supply chain performance.
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Maziriri, Eugine T., Tinashe Chuchu, and Nkosivile W. Madinga. "Antecedents of psychological well-being among workers within small and medium enterprises." SA Journal of Industrial Psychology 45 (October 10, 2019). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajip.v45i0.1691.
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Orientation: In the contemporary business environment, employee mental health is neglected, especially in mental health research and practice in African Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). This occurs even though this sector is the largest contributor to developed economies. This study highlights the importance of psychological well-being in SME performance and the individual employee.Research purpose: To investigate the influence of perceived organisational support, career goal development and empowering leadership on the psychological well-being of SME employees in Gauteng province, South Africa.Motivation for the study: Despite increasing research on SMEs, few studies have investigated the impact of perceived organisational support, career goal development, and empowering leadership on psychological well-being in a Southern African context.Research approach/design and method: This study followed a quantitative approach, using the survey methodology where a structured questionnaire was administered to 250 SME employees. To evaluate the psychometric properties of measurement scales, a confirmatory factor analysis was performed. Structural equation modelling was used to test the hypotheses.Main findings: Perceived organisational support, career goal development and empowering leadership have a positive and significant impact on the psychological well-being of SME workers. A robust, positive and significant relationship exists between empowering leadership and psychological well-being.Practical/managerial implications: The results indicate that SME managers in South Africa should pay more attention to, or place greater emphasis on, supporting employees in their organisations, recognising and assisting them in achieving their goals, and empowering them to be happy at work. If the psychological well-being of employees is prioritised, SME business performance will ultimately improve.Contribution/value-add: This study contributes to the current body of Africa’s industrial psychology and mental health literature – a field that has received little research attention in developing countries like South Africa.
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Hove-Sibanda, Progress, Kin Sibanda, and David Pooe. "The impact of corporate governance on firm competitiveness and performance of small and medium enterprises in South Africa: A case of small and medium enterprises in Vanderbijlpark." Acta Commercii 17, no. 1 (January 31, 2017). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/ac.v17i1.446.
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Orientation: Corporate governance adoption and compliance are an issue augmenting in importance recently and have been extended to business enterprises of any size including small and medium enterprises (SMEs).Research purpose: This study seeks to examine the impact of corporate governance adoption on the firm competitiveness and performance of SMEs in Vanderbijlpark.Research design, approach and method: The study employs a cross-sectional research design, which employed quantitative methods. One hundred fifty-two SME owners or managers were selected from Vanderbijlpark in Gauteng, South Africa. The collected data were analysed using a structural equation modelling system by using Smart PLS software.Main findings: The principal findings of this study revealed that the implementation of corporate governance by SMEs significantly and positively affected their competitiveness and performance.Practical and managerial implications: The paper provided practical implications and made some recommendations.Contribution or value-added: This article bridges the gap between theory and practice because it has both an economic and commercial impact in practice. It can be used in influencing public policy, teaching and research (because it contributes to the body of knowledge, particularly regarding SME corporate governance in emerging markets). An important aspect of this article is that it gives a framework for additional similar studies in other locations within emerging markets to test the generalisability of the findings. For teaching purposes, it provides a template for how to assess the link that exists between corporate governance and SME performance. Lastly, the article gives a unique empirical analysis of the relationship that exists between corporate governance compliance and performance of firms in South Africa, and thereby giving a valid contribution to corporate governance literature.
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Charman, Andrew. "Micro-enterprise predicament in township economic development: Evidence from Ivory Park and Tembisa." South African Journal of Economic and Management Sciences 20, no. 1 (May 18, 2017). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajems.v20i1.1617.
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Background: In South Africa, the idea that the township economy needs to be ‘revitalised’ has begun to gain significant political traction. The Gauteng provincial government has responded to this challenge by setting out a strategy that promises to channel resources and create opportunities for micro-enterprises. The paper responds to development interventions such as this through interrogating the nature of the challenges facing micro-enterprises that need to be overcome in South African townships.Aim: In response to the developmental need to stimulate micro-enterprise growth in South African townships, the paper poses the question: what approaches are most likely to have a positive impact on township businesses, given current micro-enterprise dynamics?Setting: Primary research was undertaken in two neighbouring townships in Gauteng province, in Ivory Park and Tembisa.Methods: The data comprises a geospatial census of enterprise activities, a survey of select firms and qualitative interviews with business owners. The research utilised a small-area census approach to obtain data on business activities within an area of approximately 2km2 in each site. The census enumerated 2509 micro-enterprises in Ivory Park and 1722 micro-enterprises in Tembisa. Firm interviews were conducted with business owners in four sectors: grocery retail, liquor retail, hair care and early childhood development centres.Results: The business census identifies a strong similarity in the structure of the townships’ informal micro-entrepreneurship despite the considerable differences in the socio-economic status of the respective case sites. The enterprise survey highlights the resource constraints of township businesses and thinness of local markets. Interviews with entrepreneurs reveal four main pathways through which individuals enter into self-employment with the most dynamic enterprises established by inward investing entrepreneurs. Spatial considerations exert an influence on the position of enterprise sectors, whilst access to land and business infrastructure are notable constraints.Conclusion: Reflecting on the evidence, the paper concludes with making a call for a more low-geared development approach, focusing on lessening the legal, institutional and regulatory obstacles to enterprise growth as a first step. Municipalities have an important role in liberalising the spaces and places where township informal enterprises can and should be permitted to trade as well as creating a more favourable business environment. The challenges of crime and finance demand more purposeful action from the national government.
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Van Vuuren, J. J., and D. Groenewald. "A critical analysis of the influence of start-up factors in small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures in SA." Acta Commercii 7, no. 1 (December 7, 2007). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/ac.v7i1.39.
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Purpose: This paper focuses on a critical analysis of the influence of start-up factors in small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures in Gauteng, a province in South Africa.Problem investigated: Owing to the low economic growth, high unemployment, and an unsatisfactory level of poverty in South Africa, entrepreneurship becomes a critical solution for the starting and developing of small businesses. Although the South African Government are constantly improving in eliminating barriers to potential start-ups, South Africa's TEA is not up to standard if it wants to sustain economic growth rates that will create wealth for everybody. Various factors influence and play a role in the establishment and operation of small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures.Design/methodology/approach: An ex-post facto, formal research design was used as respondents were requested to indicate on a four-point scale how important they deemed 37 items in a structured personal interview. A sample of 312 elements was included in the research. The data was analysed through a factor analysis and analysis of variance.Findings: Four factors were identified that influence the start-up of small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures. They are: personal management and involvement; role models; effective time management; and support from partners and advisors. It is very clear that there is a definite difference in the needs and factors influencing: women and male entrepreneurs; the age of entrepreneurs and the stage of the business in its life cycle.Value of research: By analysing the factors that influence start-up, it can make potential entrepreneurs aware of theimportance of considering these factors in the start-up and growth of their businesses.Conclusion: The findings of this research are in line with similar international research (Mazzarol et al., 1999 and Deakins & Freel, 2003) on various aspects influencing the start-up of businesses. Although a lot of support, education and training are given in South Africa, policy makers and educational institutions should take note of the various differences in needs and make provision in their support and training for these differences. It is also recommended that existing small business owners and entrepreneurs must create their own support structure specifically when they move from the start-up stage to the new firm stage, as this is a stage where support and advice is much needed.
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Eicker, Themari, and J. Orpha Cilliers. "Inventory decision-making by small Sowetan retailers." Journal of Transport and Supply Chain Management 12 (September 17, 2018). http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/jtscm.v12i0.387.
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Background: The importance of South African small businesses, especially retailers, in improving communities’ standards of living necessitates sound business strategies to survive and remain competitive. Selecting appropriate business strategies is cardinal for the sustainable development and growth of all types of businesses, including small businesses. The supply chain strategy defines how operations in the supply chain will support the overall competitive strategy and is orientated to promote either responsiveness or cost-efficiency. It is imperative that all inventory decisions be aligned with the orientation of the selected supply chain strategy.Objectives: The aim of this article was firstly to determine how small retailers operating within the boundaries of Soweto, a township in Gauteng, South Africa, manage their inventory decisions considering the orientation of the supply chain strategy; and secondly, to investigate whether retail industries differ in terms of inventory decisions.Method: A survey was conducted among 650 formal, independent small businesses operating within Soweto of which 556 were classified as retailers based on the Standard Industrial Classification. Structured interviewer-completed questionnaires were used to obtain quantitative data from owners or managers. Both descriptive and inferential analyses were performed to determine the orientation of the retailers’ supply chain strategy based on their inventory decisions relating to the average rate of purchasing inventory, the amount of inventory purchased, as well as the quality and variety of products offered to customers. Five hypotheses were formulated to determine whether a difference exists between six industry groups with regard to the management of inventory.Results: It was established that small township retailers predominantly manage their inventory decisions responsively. It was also concluded that differences exist in terms of how small township retailers manage their inventory based on the industry in which they operate. The results showed that retail hardware stores are focused on making inventory decisions more cost-efficiently than the other industry groups, whereas retail general stores are focused on making inventory decisions more responsively than the other industry groups.Conclusion: The owners or managers of small township retailers need to be educated in terms of inventory management decisions. This article can be used as an educational platform to show how small township retailers can identify the aligned inventory decisions for supporting a selected supply chain strategy orientation. Generally, small township retailers may maintain their competitive advantage if they align all business strategies to promote responsiveness. Since the industry in which small retailers operate influences inventory management decisions in terms of responsiveness and cost-efficiency, owners or managers must consider the specific industry in which they operate before making such decisions.
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Windapo, Abimbola. "Editorial." Journal of Construction Business and Management 4, no. 2 (February 7, 2021). http://dx.doi.org/10.15641/jcbm.4.2.1050.
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Welcome to the eight-issue of the Journal of Construction Business and Management. This edition of the journal presents scholarly discussions on theoretical and empirical challenges confronting best practices and policies in construction businesses and projects. The intention is to understand the practice and theoretical lens used in its explanation or interpretation. This edition of the journal covers the following subjects: subcontracting processes, contingency management, social license, risk measurement, project success, quality process implementation and competitive advantage. The issue contains five articles written by eight scholars based in Ghana, India, Nigeria, and South Africa.
The first paper by Akinwale and Olusanya (2020) examines subcontracting processes' influence on wages and workloads in the construction industry. The study found that subcontracting processes significantly influenced workers’ participation in wage determination and workloads. The findings suggest that working in a subcontracting system alienates subcontracted workers from the determination of wages and workloads and thereby showing the need for adequate protection for these workers. The second paper by Maniar (2020) evaluates the current state, the issues faced in contingency management and its effectiveness in curbing cost overruns. It seems inevitable that contingency management could impact cost overrun problems. Not so reveals the study results, which shows that contingency considerations were only useful in accommodating cost overrun problems in 18% of projects studied. Based on these findings, the study recommends that contingency be estimated based on the scientific approach to addressing project risks instead of the commonly used subjective approach.
Perhaps the most compelling argument is why a construction company must acquire regulatory permits that embrace all stakeholders before a construction project is approved as outlined in Danku (2020). The paper highlights that not all formal processes embrace all stakeholders such as the hosting community who need to consent to a firm’s activities to complete the symbiotic relationship. The study found a limited understanding and restricted application of the concept of social licence – the commitment of residents towards acceptance, approval and support for a project to exist within a community, by construction professionals. The paper recommends industry sensitization and education to harness a company's benefits from acquiring a social licence. The fourth paper by Renault, Agumba and Ansary (2020) examines the influence of risk management on the project success of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Results reveal that risk management significantly influences construction SMEs' project success by delimiting the risk management criteria to be adopted, establishing the level of acceptable risk and risk timeframe relevant to risk effect and risk likelihood. The paper recommends that the management of SMEs and construction industry professionals adopt risk management to manage their project risks to accomplish project objectives effectively.
Although it is generally accepted that construction quality process implementation improves construction project performance, there is limited research into the factors affecting the quality of the road infrastructure projects produced by SMEs. The fifth paper by Nyakala (2020) investigates these factors. The study established that five construction quality process factors affect the quality of road infrastructure projects undertaken by construction SMEs. These factors comprise construction process and design; construction quality management at the site level; the development and implementation of quality procedures and requirements; quality benchmarking; continuous improvement and communication. The results provide a guideline for the successful construction quality implementation by designers/consultants and managers in the construction SME sector. It helps establish the factors affecting road infrastructure projects' quality and a benchmark for competitive advantage.
Overall, these articles should spark debate and force professionals, researchers and policymakers to think differently about the construction project and business performance while inspiring new practices. I acknowledge all authors who submitted papers for consideration. I also value the contributions and unrelenting efforts of the JCBM editorial board members and panel of reviewers in ensuring that manuscripts are of high quality and keeping the journal on the path to attaining the expected standard and quality. Criticisms, feedback and suggestions are welcome from readers on how to improve the quality of the journal.
References:
Akinwale, A. A., & Olusanya, O. A. (2020). Influence of Subcontracting Processes on Wages and Workloads in the Building Construction Industry in Nigeria. Journal of Construction Business and Management, 4(2), 1-10.
Maniar, H. (2020). Contingency Management in Indian Construction Projects. Journal of Construction Business and Management, 4(2), 11-24.
Danku, J. C. (2020). Exploring the Concept of Social Licence in the Construction Industry of a Developing Country. Journal of Construction Business and Management, 4(2), 25-33.
Renault, B. Y., Agumba, J. N., & Ansary, N. (2020). Correlation analysis between risk measurement and project success of small and medium contractors in Gauteng, South Africa. Journal of Construction Business and Management, 4(2), 34-45.
Nyakala, S. K. (2020). Construction quality process implementation as a source of competitive advantage in small and medium-sized construction projects. Journal of Construction Business and Management, 4(2), 46-54.