Mabaso, C.Rajlal, AshneeVezi, Phumelela Talent2025-06-252025-06-252024https://hdl.handle.net/10321/6051A dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for a Doctor of Philosophy in Business and Information Management, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.This doctoral research investigates the development of an effective staff development framework aimed at optimizing employee performance within the Msunduzi Municipality in South Africa. Recognizing the challenges faced by local government in enhancing workforce capabilities, the study employs an integrative approach that combines elements of organizational development, human resource management, and performance enhancement strategies to create a model tailored to the municipality's specific needs. Utilising a qualitative methodology, the research involved conducting in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including employees, managers, and human resource professionals. Thematic analysis was utilised to identify recurring patterns and correlations within the qualitative data, leading to a deeper understanding of the socio-cultural factors that influence employee performance and engagement in the South African local government context. Findings highlight significant gaps in existing staff development initiatives, including inadequate training programs, opportunities for professional growth, and a lack of alignment between individual competencies and organizational goals. The proposed staff development framework emerges as a holistic model that emphasizes continuous learning, skills development, talent management, and the alignment of individual goals with broader organizational objectives advocating for a structured approach to staff development, incorporating regular skills assessments, targeted training programs, and leadership development initiatives.The study concludes that implementing evidence-based staff development framework significantly enhance employee performance and organizational effectiveness within the Msunduzi Municipality. Key recommendations include the establishment of mentorship programs, ongoing professional development opportunities, and partnerships with educational institutions to facilitate training. By providing practical insights for policymakers and practitioners, this research contributes to the broader academic discourse on human resource management in the public sector and serves as a potential blueprint for other local governments facing similar challenges.197 penPerformance managementPerformance measurementPerformance appraisalPerformance management analysisCompensation systemTraining strategiesHuman capital developmentBalanced ScorecardMetropolitan MunicipalityEmployee motivation--South AfricaPerformance--ManagementCareer developmentMunicipal officials and employees--South AfricaEmployee motivationThesishttps://doi.org/10.51415/10321/6051