Research Publications (Management Sciences)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10321/217

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The use of competitive intelligence as a strategic tool for student recruitment in public universities
(Bussecon International Academy) Mgweba, Chulumanco; Rawjee, Veena Parboo; Naidoo, Paulene
Competitive intelligence strategies are employed by higher education institutions to assist with student recruitment. These competitive intelligence (CI) strategies help maintain or increase market share in education. Utilising competitive intelligence is crucial for firms in competitive markets, assisting in strategic planning and execution. Higher education organisations can benefit from CI to make informed decisions and develop strategic goals. The competition between selected public universities that reside in the same town has resulted in devising competitive strategies to attract grade 12 students with effective and innovative student recruitment strategies. The study sought to examine how competitive intelligence is used as a strategy to promote student recruitment at selected public universities. The study adopted a quantitative research approach where 234 first-time entering university students were used as key informants. To collect data, a questionnaire was used and is attached. It was discovered that both institutions utilised similar strategies to recruit students. Results reveal that the selected public universities employ traditional and technology-based strategies for student recruitment, relying on past success rather than a standardised approach based on competitive intelligence. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of competitive intelligence strategies in student recruitment, aiming to promote diverse communication needs among current and potential students.
Innovative financing strategies in the small and medium business sector, tapping the right sources
(Danubius University Press, 2022-12-1) Rawjee, Veena Parboo; Chikwira, Collin
Abstract: Small and medium businesses are still small due to financial incapacitation. Financial resources are the limiting factors for growth; therefore, the study explores the SMEs' sources of finance and innovative financial strategies for firm growth. The research adopted mixed methods. The structured questionnaires were used on a face to face, telephonic, email, and virtual forms. The survey was more concerned with quantitative and qualitative finance sources on both preferred and business uses. The results show that the financing preferences of owners/managers of all the selected Districts changed accordingly with the growing needs of their SMEs. At the start-up stage, they appear to have relied much on their savings and financial support from immediate families. After two years of economic viability, the SMEs have increased their reliance on the support of financial institutions. With the growth in the implementation of 4th Industrialisation and progresses in artificial intelligence, the World is now a village. Social media has reduced the distance. Therefore, the study proposed project financial strategies and trust financing were SMEs can tap into for their financing needs. Innovations in the global village induce untapped sources of financing through the currently proposed financing models for SMEs in this study.
The relationship between e-WOM and consumer online buying behaviour
(Seybold Publications, 2024-8-1) Tinonetsana, Faith; Rawjee, Veena Parboo; Govender, Jeevarathnam Parthasarathy
The growth of active users on online interactive media platforms, such as electronic Word-of-Mouth, has had a significant impact on marketers as customers are more likely to trust unfiltered e-WOM from other consumers than marketer-influenced signals like branding. There is still a debate about the impact of e-WOM on consumer purchasing behaviour; this discrepancy could be attributed to various factors, including the context in which the studies were conducted, the methodological approaches used, and the time and spatial dimensions. Other factors contributing to the lack of consensus include the fact that online content is tailored to different occasions, social groups, and even different brands. The paper seeks to establish what e-WOM is and discuss its relationship with consumers’ buying behaviour process during online buying. The study was quantitative, descriptive, and crosssectional. The self-administered questionnaires were sent via email to 400 Durban University of Technology staff and students and only 288 questionnaires were received back. A review of the literature revealed a positive relationship between e-WOM and consumer buying behaviour. The empirical findings from the structural equation modelling, which demonstrated a positive, strong correlation between e-WOM and consumer buying behaviour, further support the literature. Marketers must design tactics to increase the likelihood of their businesses creating positive e-WOM in all e-WOM stages and capitalising on the power of any favourable reviews and testimonials received.
The uptake of digital marketing by rural communities in flagstaff, South Africa
(Ponte Academic Journal) Noqazo, Zizipho; Madondo, Elvis; Rawjee, Veena Parboo
Abstract Retail outlets in rural South African communities are increasingly concerned about sustainability. Many of these outlets are therefore adopting digital marketing as a means to assist with sustainability initiatives. The implementation of digital marketing within this context face challenges. These challenges therefore limit the full potential of digital marketing. This study therefore set out to assess the uptake of digital marketing among consumers in rural Flagstaff. Using a qualitative research approach, data was gathered through five focus-group discussions involving an average of six participants each. Thematic analysis of the data revealed a limited adoption of digital marketing by in Flagstaff, with some consumers admitting to never having used digital devices. The main barriers cited were inadequate internet access due to poor mobile network coverage and the absence of WiFi hotspots. To improve adoption rates, the study recommends enhancing network infrastructure, offering affordable data plans, and improving access to digital devices by rural consumers. These measures may aim to increase the utilisation of digital marketing initiatives within South African retail outlets.
An exploration of the effects of foreign direct investments on South Africa’s economic growth
(La Nuova Italia Editrice, 2024-1-1) Muzuva, Meshel; Balkaran, Rishi; Rawjee, Veena Parboo
This study examines how foreign direct investment (FDI) impacts South Africa's economic growth. Interviews were conducted with experts in economics and business to gain insight into their perspectives on South Africa's FDI attraction strategy and impact on economic growth . The findings reveal both advantages and disadvantages associated with FDI. While experts acknowledge that FDI has the potential to stimulate economic growth, they also raise concerns regarding unequal distribution of benefits and potential harm to the economy. To maximize the positive effects of FDI while minimizing risks, the participants recommend several actions. These include making regulations clearer and more predictable, improving infrastructure to make South Africa more competitive, and attracting investment to growing industries. Collaboration between different groups is also seen as important for sharing knowledge, developing skills, and creating new ideas. Additionally, addressing skill shortages, making it easier for businesses to get funding, and promoting South Africa more effectively are seen as crucial. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the need for a well-rounded approach to attracting FDI, considering economic, social, and government-related factors. By implementing targeted policies and encouraging collaboration, South Africa can become more attractive to investors and achieve its full economic potential. However, it's important to constantly monitor how well these strategies work to ensure FDI truly benefits South Africa's long-term economic growth and development.
Preference for a career in retailing: a question of personality
(Informa UK Limited, 2018) Heidig, Wibke; Dobbelstein, Thomas; Mason, Roger Bruce; Jooste, Wayne
Drawing on previous findings from the field of brand personality research and employer branding, this paper aims to explore the symbolic attributes of the retail industry image in South Africa and to identify those personality traits that distinguish preferred industries from the retail industry. The research provides a contemporary overview of the current image of the retail industry in South Africa from the perspective of young university students and allows retailers to strengthen their joint communication effort accordingly. Therefore, a quantitative survey study with 1426 participants from five South African universities was conducted. Participants assessed personality characteristics of the retail industry as well as their most preferred industry. The main results suggest that retail and non-retail students hold different personality perceptions of the retail industry and that prior retail involvement accounts for this difference to some extent. Moreover, the analysis shows that retailing performs significantly worse on those personality attributes that are of major importance for future job seekers. Additionally, the study identifies those attributes that exert a strong effect on students’ preferences for the retail industry. The findings provide useful communication themes for educational institutions, retail companies, and industry associations in order to foster positive personality perceptions associated with the retail industry.
Food for thought: how culture shapes intentions to reduce food waste in South Africa
(Wiley, 2025-3) Heidig, Wibke; Dobbelstein, Thomas; Mason, Roger Bruce
In the context of increasing food scarcity, the issue of household food waste has garnered significant attention, particularly in developing nations. Despite its critical importance, there remains a paucity of empirical research exploring the underlying behavioral and cultural factors that shape individuals’ intentions to reduce food waste within their homes. This article seeks to bridge this gap by drawing on the theory of planned behavior to examine how personal cultural values impact attitudes toward food waste reduction, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control (PBC), which serve as key determinants of behavioral intention. To empirically test the proposed model, a comprehensive quantitative survey was conducted among 529 South African consumers. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling, revealing that consumers who exhibit stronger adherence to cultural dimensions such as uncertainty avoidance and long‐term orientation, coupled with lower scores on power distance, are likely, through the influence of attitude, subjective norms, and PBC, to possess higher intentions to actively reduce food waste. These findings offer valuable insights for marketers and policymakers, highlighting the potential to leverage cultural values in designing effective interventions aimed at encouraging more sustainable consumer behaviors and reducing household food waste.
Factors influencing the use of digital personal banking in South Africa
(Academy of Taiwan Information Systems Research, 2024-1-1) Ramsundra, Avikar; Mason, Roger Bruce
Financial technology improvements have simplified personal banking, allowing a range of services to be accessed anytime and anywhere. But the impact of digital financial technology on the use by consumers of digital personal banking in developing economies has been little researched. The purpose of this study is, therefore, to examine the link between the use of digital personal banking by consumers and the various drivers of digital banking use in a developing economy, namely South Africa. An online survey of 400 digital banking users in the iLembe district of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, was used to collect data. Of the eight drivers identified initially from extant literature, Online service quality, Usability, and Branch service quality were the most important, with Usability and Online service quality having the greatest positive influence, and Branch service quality having a large negative influence, on use of digital banking by the respondents.
A management model for the economic sustainability of the retail cooperative sector in South Africa
(2018-12-31) Mason, Roger Bruce; Raap, Peter John
Abstract: It is well recognized internationally that cooperatives can provide a wellspring for the development of economies. The factors enhancing the establishment, resilience, and sustainability of cooperatives in the wholesale and retail sector in South Africa are examined in this paper with the purpose of proposing a management model that could support the development and sustainability of cooperatives in this sector. The paper identifies four themes necessary to be in place for the successful establishment and sustainability of cooperatives. The research approach was qualitative, cross-sectional and descriptive. Three groups of respondents were sampled, two groups were interviewed telephonically, the third as a focus group. These included retail cooperative owners or managers and experts in the field of cooperatives in the retail sector. A questionnaire was developed around the four themes and served as the basis of a discussion guide for the focus group. The first theme, Legislation, appears to be soundly in place, while the remaining three themes: Management and infrastructural issues; Training and skills issues and Marketing issues are found to be wanting. In order to overcome these weaknesses, a management model is proposed which can facilitate the development of cooperatives in the shorter term as well as being able to capacitate the emerging cooperatives for sustainability in the longer term. Further research into possible structures for emerging retail cooperatives is suggested.
A model for wholesale and retail assessment centres in regulated occupational learning in South Africa
(Informa UK Limited, 2019-7-4) Damons, Deonita; Le Grange, Jason J.; Mason, Roger Bruce; Louw, Steven W.
South Africa's new occupational and vocational qualifications require assessment centres with a national footprint to conduct national summative assessments which are convenient and cost effective for learners. This new assessment process requires specialised facilities, but few current facilities can provide these. The research project proposed a model which is able to serve the needs of the quality assurance body and industry and be appropriate to the retail sector occupational qualifications. A qualitative method was used, involving a literature review and secondary data analysis; small focus groups; semi-structured interviews; and follow-up workshops to peer review the findings. The participants included industry experts, education providers and quality assurance experts. Two models were identified and considered, namely: Model A, which involves private businesses that can be accredited to become assessment centres; and Model B, which uses Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges for all national assessments. The overall finding was that Model B is more suitable.
Job creation in the South African retail sector
(2017) Malgas, Burton; Khatle, Tony; Mason, Roger Bruce
This paper reports on research into retail’s contribution to, and strategies for, job creation, providing an overview of employment in the South African retail industry, and its contribution to job creation. The study focused on skills as visualized by large formal businesses, informal businesses and SMME's, and on the impact of new technologies on employment and skills. A qualitative method was adopted included telephonic depth interviews with senior managers of the ten largest retailers and with student interns. In addition, SMME owners or managers were surveyed via an on-line questionnaire. The study shows that the creation of jobs requires a multi-factor approach, with the external environment playing a vital role. Political and economic factors impact on the creation or shedding of jobs based on supply and demand within the sector, and social factors play a role through support of SMME’s and emerging small businesses. Technology is a key factor, especially online shopping, e-commerce and and transport logistics. Mechanisation and automation is going to reduce some jobs, but will create other new jobs and careers. The research has dealt with the national challenge of creating sustainable jobs in the important Retail sector, which contributes about 20% of jobs in the South African market, although many are of a casual nature. The study has shown that a comprehensive and viable strategy is crucial for alleviating unemployment in the sector, especially youth unemployment.
Transformation in the wholesale and retail sector in South Africa: the role of internships
(Centre for Business and Economic Research, 2018-7-15) Koyana, Siphokazi; Mason, Roger Bruce
This paper presents an investigation into internships in South Africa's retail sector. The research questions it seeks to answer are: (i) What are the benefits (strengths) of this sector-sponsored internship programme (ii) What are its limitations (weaknesses), and (iii) What changes, if any, can be recommended to improve the programme? The methodology used was a case study of a retail sector internship, with data gathered via a survey of 12 retail firms, two focus groups of 15 interns, and four depth interviews with retail managers who had previously been interns. The study found that the programme is very beneficial to the participants, as they get exposure to real work opportunities and the previously disadvantaged are empowered with requisite skills for the sector, assisting with career advancement and upward mobility. This was despite the weaknesses of an inadequate stipend for interns and inefficiencies in the internship administration. This paper has confirmed that the retail internship is achieving the expected benefits, but highlights some critical aspects needed for future success. Further, it has provided knowledge in an under-researched area, namely internships in the retail sector. These findings could be beneficial for other sectors.
The South African e-retail change agenda: a curriculum development perspective
(Wiley, 2017-9) Alexander, Bennett; Mason, Roger Bruce
This study provides a broad overview of e‐Retail implementation and its impact on skills development within the South African retail sector. The study interrogates the readiness of the South African retail sector for e‐Retail on the basis of a selection of technology, marketing, operations and business imperatives; and provides in particular a predictive analysis of the technical skills requirement to sustain a viable e‐Retail industry in the country. In this regard, a set of salient e‐Retail functions, skills and services are identified that pragmatically define a set of baseline competencies for implementation. Furthermore, a proposed framework for a professional qualification in e‐Retail Management is provided as a possible Higher Education curriculum intervention.The study deploys a Design Science Research approach that informs the design and construction of various knowledge artefacts that describe the South African e‐Retail experience and aspirations by highlighting salient aspects relating to (1) traditional versus e‐Retail, (2) global e‐Retail trends, (3) e‐Retail technologies and platforms, and (4) e‐Retail training imperatives. The research furthermore elucidates the environment for e‐Retail deployment in South Africa with respect to e‐Retail functions, services and job skills requirements and prospects of e‐Retail as a career. The research methodology deployed in the study centres around the establishment of a change agenda for e‐Retail within the South African landscape.The study identified a comprehensive suite of key and breaking technologies that inform the successful implementation of e‐Retail in South Africa. The study also uncovered essential business process elements that are required to drive the change agenda for e‐Retail in South Africa. In this regards the study draws from salient international case studies as well as relevant national case studies. The study makes significant knowledge contributions with respect to the delineation of salient issues to be addressed with regard to the practical implementation of e‐Retail in South Africa. The study makes a novel methodological contribution by deploying a Design Science approach to establish the process logic for the research and a Critical Interpretivist approach of information synthesis. This strategy allowed the research to be both suggestive of, and receptive to, opportunities and challenges within a complex environment of change and transformation. However, the nature and limitations of the data gathering process places a practical limitation on the value of the research in that generalised conclusions are not possible and information is relevant only for the purpose and within the context that it was mined.
Occupational assessment model as a regulation tool in the wholesale and retail sector
(Virtus Interpress, 2016) Meyer, Linda; Le Grange, Jon Jay; Mason, Roger Bruce; Louw, Steven
The aim of this study was to critically evaluate the implementation requirements of the new system of occupational qualification and part qualifications in South Africa, from the perspective of industry and other stakeholders who are affected by the change. The methodology adopted was qualitative, including an analysis of secondary data, namely South African and international policy documents on assessment. This was followed by empirical research, using individual interviews and a survey applied via regional focus groups. A purposive sample of 67 stakeholders, made up of business, training providers, quality assurance experts and W & RSETA staff, was selected. Data was analysed using a thematic identifier, looking for common trends that were then grouped according to categories. Each questionnaire was dissected and classified according to the categories. Independent checks were put into place in which data was cross-referenced and audited to ensure that all findings produced were error free. The main findings were that an assessment model would need to be flexible to meet the industry’s various needs. Furthermore, a standard operating procedure is required, industry consultation on their needs and assessment planning is needed to minimise disruption of operations, and a formalized process by which roles are linked to standard operating procedures and the ability to perform competently against them is necessary.
Shortage of retail management skills and employment equity strategies: attracting women for permanent retail careers in rural areas
(Serials Publications, 2018-3-26) Malgas, Burton; Khatle, Tony; Mason, Roger Bruce
This paper explores the employment of women in retail management in rural South Africa, in order to improve their attraction, placement and retention in the sector. Research was based on literature and employment statistics from the sector, followed by depth interviews and a focus group, conducted with twenty supervisory and management participants from small, medium and large retailers. There were few women in such positions - mostly only in smaller retailers. Women managers are under-represented and under-paid, and influenced by barriers such as education, limited sector exposure, culture and traditions, non-fluency in business languages and employment as casual workers.
Enhancing financial inclusion for small and medium-sized enterprises in South Africa through digital finance
(2024-3-28) Msomi, Thabiso Sthembiso
This research delves into the transformative role of digital finance in augmenting financial inclusion for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa. The primary aim is to scrutinise how digital finance contributes to enhancing financial inclusion for SMEs in the South African context. Employing a positivist paradigm, this study adopts a quantitative methodology. The data collection process entails purposeful sampling of 321 SME owners from a total pool of 700, with the sample size determined using the Cochran formula. The study's results underscore the potential of digital finance to boost financial inclusion for SMEs by facilitating access to financial services, curbing transaction costs, and streamlining financial transactions. Nevertheless, persistent challenges, including limited digital infrastructure, inadequate financial literacy levels, and regulatory impediments, necessitate attention to facilitate the widespread adoption of digital finance among SMEs. In conclusion, the study recommends fostering collaboration among key stakeholders such as financial institutions, technology companies, and government agencies. This collaborative approach aims to establish a conducive ecosystem that supports the adoption of digital finance among SMEs, ultimately advancing financial inclusion in South Africa.
Building entrepreneurial communities in higher education: insights from Afe Babalola University as a case study
(Iquz Galaxy Publisher, 2025) Temitayo, Adesina Oluwaseun; Dorasamy, Nirmala; Ilugbusi, Segun
Entrepreneurial communities within higher education play a pivotal role in fostering innovation, collaboration, and the development of future business leaders. Using Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) in Nigeria as a case study, this study explores the dynamics of creating and sustaining entrepreneurial communities in higher education institutions, with a focus on mentorship, peer networks, and collaboration. The research evaluates how ABUAD's entrepreneurship programme equips students with entrepreneurial skills while fostering a supportive ecosystem for student entrepreneurs. Through a mixed-method approach, combining a survey of 324 final-year students and interviews with eight faculty members, the study uncovers the critical role of mentorship and networking in motivating entrepreneurial ventures. Findings reveal that 96% of students participated in entrepreneurship courses. Despite successes, challenges such as limited funding and inadequate practical resources hinder entrepreneurial growth. The research highlights the importance of strengthening institutional support systems, emphasising the global relevance of entrepreneurial communities in enhancing student success and driving economic development. Insights from ABUAD serve as a model for other institutions aiming to cultivate thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Dropouts in gamified promotions :how retailers can manage them
(2025-7-25) Sinemus, Kathrin; Zielke, Stephan; Dobbelstein, Thomas
Retailers are increasingly losing the attention of consumers (Stipp, 2018) and are therefore looking for new, attention-grabbing advertising methods such as gamification (Högberg et al., 2019). Gamification uses game elements to motivate consumers to behave in a certain way in non-game contexts (Deterding et al., 2011; Seaborn and Fels, 2015). Retailers can use gamified promotions that combine a traditional promotion with game elements such as digital prize wheels. Although such gamified promotions can potentially increase sales (Bauer et al., 2020), they can also lead to negative public and consumer perceptions. Previous literature has observed negative effects of gamification on consumer purchase intention (Högberg et al., 2019). These findings suggest that positive effects of gamification cannot be taken for granted. For example, some consumers may ignore gamified advertising or abandon the game. This behavior could have a negative impact on attitudes towards the app and the retailer. We conducted three studies using scenario experiments with a mock-up app to investigate the dropouts of a gamified promotion. The results of studies 1 to 3 show that gamified promotion dropouts have a more negative attitude towards the app and the retailer than players. The results of studies 2 and 3 show that the difference between dropouts and players can be explained by consumer reactance. In addition, study 3 shows that consumer reactance can be reduced if the prize is announced before (vs. after) playing and that retailers should implement a feedback option, e.g. in the form of a push message, so that consumers can decide whether they want to receive the option to play a game next time. The contribution of our work is threefold. First, we examine the effect of dropouts (vs. players) of a gamified promotion on consumers’ attitude toward the app and the retailer. Second, we consider reactance theory by Brehm (1966) to explain the abovementioned effect. Third, we contribute to existing literature by providing implications on how retailers should manage dropouts. In addition, our work highlights the importance of considering dropouts and provides insights into how retailers can deal with them.
Local conflict management strategies and resilient factors among selected feuding communities in Kwara State, Nigeria
(Adonis & Abbey Publishers, 2024-12-1) Gbadeyan, Olawale James; Ettang, Dorcas; Oyebamiji, Sunday I.; Osadola, Oluwaseun Samuel; Ola, Adegboyega Adedolapo; Odedokun, Ezekiel Adeyemi; Agidigbi, Eniola Rachael
This study explores the local conflict management strategies and resilient factors among feuding communities in Kwara State, Nigeria. Adopting a comprehensive qualitative method, the study held 12 Focus group discussions and 20 Key In-Depth Interviews with 20 stakeholders selected from Offa, Erin-Ile, Share and Tsaragi communities. These communities were chosen because they have experienced the most protracted inter-communal conflicts in the state. There were some challenges regarding the adoption of traditional methods and procedures of conflict resolution in the affected communities. The study concluded that traditional methods and procedures of conflict resolution should be adopted in the affected communities to build the resilience required for achieving sustainable peace. The study recommended that the Kwara State government should empower and motivate elders/chiefs in the affected communities to do what is needed to end the protracted feuds and ensure positive peace in the affected communities.
Governance of strategically relevant research in the wholesale and retail sector
(Virtus Interpress, 2016) Sewell, William; Steyn, Jacobus N.; Venter, Petrus; Mason, Roger Bruce
This paper reports on a comprehensive survey of priority research needs of the South African wholesale and retail sector, with the objective of providing an overview of the most significant research requirements of this significant economic sector. The survey was conducted across a spectrum of sector stakeholders including corporate, independent and informal traders, in all provinces. Survey methodology encompassed a structured priority-rating questionnaire, complemented by dialogic interviews with thought leaders in the sector, and with government and labour union officials. Considering functional areas and Standard Industry Classification divisions, the multiplicity of research problems perceived by industry stakeholders is analysed and distilled into the ‘Top Ten Research Priorities’ for consideration by the retail industry, government policy makers and academic researchers.

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