Bestuurstrategieë bepaal die tempo van kapitaalakkumulasie onder verski1lende ekonomiese toestande. Strategiese beplanning help bestuur om by 'n vinnig veranderende omgewing aan te pas. Die volgende finansiële komponente het 'n wesentlike invloed op die onderneming se groeivermoë en voortbestaan: winsgewendheid, hoeveelheid vreemde kapitaal gebruik, koste van kapitaal, belastingskoerse en konsumpsiegeneigdheid. Die finansiële risiko wat 'n ondememing kan aanvaar, word hoofsaaklik bepaal deur die vlak van besigheidsrisiko inherent aan ondernemingsbedrywighede. In hierdie studie is die effck van verskillende groeistrategieë op ondernemingsgroei onder dinamiese toestande wat risiko en onsekerheid insluit, bepaal. Netto-waardes en lewenstandaarde was maatstawwe van sukses. 'n Simulasiemodel van die besluitnemingsproses van boerdery-ondernemings is hiervoor gebruik. Die vorige jaar se resultate word evalueer en moontlikhede vir uitbreiding of byhuur word ondersoek. Die jaar se bedryfsplan word gedeeltelik gebaseer op die mate van sukses behaal met diè van die vorige jaar. Alternatiewe planne kan ook opgestel, evalueer en begroot word. Doelwitte, hulpbronbeskikbaarheid, ekonomiese toestande en prys- en opbrengsverwagtings word inkorporeer. Vyf grondverkrygingstrategieë is getoets: (1) Slegs huur; (2) Slegs kontantgrondaankope; (3) Aankoop en huur by elke geleentheid; (4) Aankope slegs elke vyfdejaar; (5) Koop slegs wanneer laste: bate verhouding gunstig is. Ander beheerde veranderlikes was inflasie- en rentekoerse (drie peile); leningsbeperkings (twee peile); bestuursvermoeëns (twee peile) en beginsituasies (twee). Deterministiese en stochastiese modelle is gebruik. In die deterministiese model was pryse en opbrengste konstant. In die stoehastiese model is pryse en opbrengste gefluktueer deur middel van 'n ewekansige getalle generator; elke geval is twintig keer herhaal. Vanuit gegewens van progressiewe boere in Wes-Transvaal is 'n tipiese onderneming gesintetiseer, en kombinasies van beheerde veranderlikes is gesimuleer. Resultate toon dat netto-waarde in 'n groot mate bepaal word deur hoe vinnig die ondernemer grond bekom. Indien insetpryse relatief tot produkpryse toeneem (hoë inflasie) toon ondernemings in die algemeen min of geen reële groei. Matige en aansienlike groei is onderskeidelik onder geen en matige inflasie ondervind. Onder matige inflasie in die deterministiese model het die mees liberale strategie (koop en huur by elke geleentheid) met die konserwatiewe leningsbeperking, die beste resultate gegee. Die kontantaankoopstrategie het onder geen en hoë inflasie met die konserwatiewe leningsbeperking die beste gevaar. In die stochastiese model het kontantaankope met die konserwatiewe leningsbeperking die beste gevaar tydens geen- en matige inflasietoestande (waar prysveranderings die produsent begunstig). Tydens hoë inflasie het die liberale leningsbeperking oorlewing meegebring. Onder hoë inflasie is die beskikbaarheid van kontant, te midde van dalende winsgewendheid van deurslaggewende belang. Korttermynkrediet het vinnig onder hierdie toestande toegeneem. Resultate in die stochastiese model het daarop gedui dat 'n deterministiese ontleding rcsultate in 'n groat mate oorskat. Prys- en opbrengsvariabiliteit neig om die eind netto-waarde aansienlik te verminder. Die simulasiemodel het insiggewende inligting vir beleidsdoeleindes verskaf. Aspekte soos inkomstebelasting, rentekoerse en middeltermynkredietverskaffing kry verdere aandag. ENGLISH : Business strategies determine the rate of capital accumulation under different economic situations. Strategic planning aids management in adjustment to a rapidly changing environment. The following financial components have a substantial effect on the firm's growth potential and survival: profitability; amount of non-equity capital employed, cost of capital, tax rates and propensity to consume. The financial risk that a firm can accept, is mainly determined by the level of business risk inherent in its operations. In this study the effects of different growth strategies on firm growth were determined under dynamic circumstances which include risk and uncertainty. Net worth and living standards were criteria of success. A simulation model of the decisionmaking process in farm firms was used for this purpose. Results of the previous year are evaluated and possibilities for expansion or rent are examined. The year's operational plan is partly determined by the extent of success of the previous year's plan. Alternative plans can also be formulated, evaluated and budgeted. Goals, resource availability, economic circumstances and price and yield expectations are incorporated Five land procurement policies were tested: (1) Only renting; (2) Only cash land purchases; (3) Purchase and rent at every opportunity; ( 4) Purchase every fifth year; (5) Purchase only when debt : asset ratio is favourable. Other controlled variables were inflation and interest rates (three levels); credit limitations (two levels); managerial ability (two levels) and starting situations (two). Deterministic and stochastic models were used. In the deterministic model prices and yields were constant. In the stochastic model a random number generator was used to fluctuate yields and prices; each case was repeated twenty times. From information obtained from progressive farmers in Western Transvaal a typical firm was synthesized and combinations of controlled variables were simulated. Results indicate that net worth is largely determined by the rate at which the operator gains control over land. When input prices increase relative to product prices (high inflation) firms generally show little or no real growth. Moderate and substantial growth occur under no and moderate inflation respectively. Under moderate inflation, using the deterministic model, the most liberal strategy (purchase and rent at every opportunity) with the conservative credit limitation gave best results. The cash purchase strategy with the conservative credit limitation gave the most success under no and high inflation. In the stochastic model cash purchases with the conservative credit limitation fared best during no and moderate inflation circumstances (where price changes favour the producer). During high inflation the liberal credit limitation achieved survival. During high inflation the availability of cash is, in the midst of declining profitability, of decisive importance. Short term credit increased rapidly under these circumstances. Results of the stochastic model suggest that a deterministic· analysis over-estimates results markedly. Price and yield variability tended to decrease the end net worth substantially. The simulation model yielded elucidatory information for policy purposes. Aspects such as income tax, interest rates and medium term credit provision require further attention. Copyright / Thesis (DSc(Agric))--University of Pretoria, 1979. / Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development / unrestricted

The aim of this study was firstly to perform, from the existing literature, a SWOT ("Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats") analysis of the boerbok industry. Secondly, to design a case study where a number of management accounting evaluation techniques (i.e. performance measurement (short–term focus), capital investment evaluation (long–term focus) and risk have been identified to compare the financial results of different scenarios between boerbok, sheep and cattle farming. In the case study, Scenarios 1, 2 and 3 assumed a farm size of 200 hectares and capital available of R200 000, R500 000 and R900 000, respectively. Scenarios 4, 5 and 6 assumed a farm size of 500 hectares, with the same capital as the above amounts, respectively; and Scenarios 7, 8 and 9 assumed a farm size of 900 hectares, with the same capital as the above amounts, respectively. The study concluded, from the SWOT analysis, that the boergoat inherently has the potential to be an important source of red meat in future markets. The sum total of the management accounting techniques indicated that the boerbok is in general financially the best specimen choice for farming, e.g. in seven of the nine scenarios it has the highest score. The recommendation is that the user must determine which of performance (short–term), return on capital (long–term) or risk are the most important considerations before a decision is made regarding to the choice of preferred specimen. The study's recommendation is to select boerbok farming in case both short–term financial performance and long–term return on capital are the most important factors. If risk is the major consideration, cattle farming should be selected. If the overall financial analysis outlined in the study is considered, boerbok farming should be selected, followed by sheep farming. Note that these recommendations are made for specific scenarios; therefore, the general recommendation is that each decision–maker should take his/her own unique situation's variables into account in this financial analysis. The limitations of the study, which arose because a number of assumptions were made, are as follows: The results of the investigation are only valid for the Potchefstroom and surrounding areas and, carrying capacity, based on this area's average, may even differ in the area; Dosage is based on the needs of the environment as in January 2011; Buying and selling prices are as at January 2011; The input costs for livestock handling infrastructure may differ, as farming practices and approaches differ; The physical shape of the farm could have a direct impact on the fencing expenditure; Lamb and calf growth percentages may vary as a result of different farming practices and approaches; and The combination of initial capital and farm size may influence the results. As a result of these constraints (assumptions), it is very risky to generalise, but the practical value of the study is that a Microsoft Excel programme was developed, which can be used for calculations, similar to calculations in this study, which is available at the following web address: http://sites.google.com/site/rooivleisvergelyking/. Therefore, variables such as farm size, capital available, carrying capacity, costs and prices can be changed for each unique scenario, and the results will be calculated accordingly. The contribution of this study is that it supports the decision regarding the choice between the types of red meat farming for several unique scenarios, because every land user can determine which of these species are recommended according to the different management accounting evaluation techniques. The value of the study is that it is the first attempt where the viability of three species of red meat farming is compared by means of a case study with different scenarios. The gap for further research that should be done is as follows: The number of evaluation techniques can be extended to give more substance to the results; The number of species in the comparison can be extended; An analysis of the behaviour of costs between the different scenarios can be done; and The optimal combination of farm size and capital available can be determined. / Thesis (M.Com. (Management Accountancy))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2012.

The aim of this study was firstly to perform, from the existing literature, a SWOT ("Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats") analysis of the boerbok industry. Secondly, to design a case study where a number of management accounting evaluation techniques (i.e. performance measurement (short–term focus), capital investment evaluation (long–term focus) and risk have been identified to compare the financial results of different scenarios between boerbok, sheep and cattle farming. In the case study, Scenarios 1, 2 and 3 assumed a farm size of 200 hectares and capital available of R200 000, R500 000 and R900 000, respectively. Scenarios 4, 5 and 6 assumed a farm size of 500 hectares, with the same capital as the above amounts, respectively; and Scenarios 7, 8 and 9 assumed a farm size of 900 hectares, with the same capital as the above amounts, respectively. The study concluded, from the SWOT analysis, that the boergoat inherently has the potential to be an important source of red meat in future markets. The sum total of the management accounting techniques indicated that the boerbok is in general financially the best specimen choice for farming, e.g. in seven of the nine scenarios it has the highest score. The recommendation is that the user must determine which of performance (short–term), return on capital (long–term) or risk are the most important considerations before a decision is made regarding to the choice of preferred specimen. The study's recommendation is to select boerbok farming in case both short–term financial performance and long–term return on capital are the most important factors. If risk is the major consideration, cattle farming should be selected. If the overall financial analysis outlined in the study is considered, boerbok farming should be selected, followed by sheep farming. Note that these recommendations are made for specific scenarios; therefore, the general recommendation is that each decision–maker should take his/her own unique situation's variables into account in this financial analysis. The limitations of the study, which arose because a number of assumptions were made, are as follows: The results of the investigation are only valid for the Potchefstroom and surrounding areas and, carrying capacity, based on this area's average, may even differ in the area; Dosage is based on the needs of the environment as in January 2011; Buying and selling prices are as at January 2011; The input costs for livestock handling infrastructure may differ, as farming practices and approaches differ; The physical shape of the farm could have a direct impact on the fencing expenditure; Lamb and calf growth percentages may vary as a result of different farming practices and approaches; and The combination of initial capital and farm size may influence the results. As a result of these constraints (assumptions), it is very risky to generalise, but the practical value of the study is that a Microsoft Excel programme was developed, which can be used for calculations, similar to calculations in this study, which is available at the following web address: http://sites.google.com/site/rooivleisvergelyking/. Therefore, variables such as farm size, capital available, carrying capacity, costs and prices can be changed for each unique scenario, and the results will be calculated accordingly. The contribution of this study is that it supports the decision regarding the choice between the types of red meat farming for several unique scenarios, because every land user can determine which of these species are recommended according to the different management accounting evaluation techniques. The value of the study is that it is the first attempt where the viability of three species of red meat farming is compared by means of a case study with different scenarios. The gap for further research that should be done is as follows: The number of evaluation techniques can be extended to give more substance to the results; The number of species in the comparison can be extended; An analysis of the behaviour of costs between the different scenarios can be done; and The optimal combination of farm size and capital available can be determined. / Thesis (M.Com. (Management Accountancy))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2012.

Both globally and locally, agriculture faces ever increasing challenges such as high input costs, strict environmental laws, decrease in land for cultivation and an increase in demand due to the growing global population. Profitability and sustainability requires more effective production systems. Precision agriculture is identified as such a system and is built upon a system approach that aims to restructure the total system of agriculture towards low input, high efficiency and sustainable agriculture. The aim of this study was to analyse the state of precision agriculture in the summer grain producing areas of South Africa, specifically the North West and Free State provinces. In order to achieve this, a literature study was conducted. During the literature study the term ‘precision agriculture’ was defined and discussed. The precision agriculture cycle and its components were explained and benefits of precision agriculture were identified. The literature study was concluded with identifying and discussing the most widely used and most beneficial technologies as well as reasons for slow adoption. Findings from the literature study were used to investigate the state of precision agriculture locally. In order to achieve this, a quantitative approach was used and information was collected by means of an empirical study using a questionnaire. Questionnaires were distributed to farmers using selling agents of an agricultural company that is well represented in the targeted areas. The data was then statistically analysed. The survey showed that only 52% of summer grain producing farmers in the North West and Free State provinces of South Africa practises precision agriculture as defined in the v literature study. The study also revealed that the majority of precision agriculture farmers are over the age of 40, have more than 16 years of farming experience, are well educated, cultivate more than 1,000 hectares and uses none or little irrigation. The most commonly used precision agriculture technologies were grid soil sampling and yield monitors. The perception among most of the farmers was that precision technologies are not very affordable, not easily available and that it lacks proper testing with regards to efficiency. The group of summer grain–producing farmers that have correctly implemented precision agriculture as per definition stated that the benefits they derived from precision technologies include reduction in input costs, increased outputs and improved management skills. Too high implementation costs and technologies not providing enough benefits were among the main reasons farmers do not implement precision agriculture. It was concluded that a significant effort and amount of work is needed to increase the use of precision agriculture among summer grain–producing farmers in the targeted areas. A consolidated effort from government, agricultural institutions and agricultural companies will be needed to achieve this goal. Implementing precision agriculture as a system will require education (from primary to tertiary institutions) and improved marketing strategies. Only then will precision technologies be able to help meet the future demands placed on the agriculture sector. / Thesis (M.B.A.)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2012.

Both globally and locally, agriculture faces ever increasing challenges such as high input costs, strict environmental laws, decrease in land for cultivation and an increase in demand due to the growing global population. Profitability and sustainability requires more effective production systems. Precision agriculture is identified as such a system and is built upon a system approach that aims to restructure the total system of agriculture towards low input, high efficiency and sustainable agriculture. The aim of this study was to analyse the state of precision agriculture in the summer grain producing areas of South Africa, specifically the North West and Free State provinces. In order to achieve this, a literature study was conducted. During the literature study the term ‘precision agriculture’ was defined and discussed. The precision agriculture cycle and its components were explained and benefits of precision agriculture were identified. The literature study was concluded with identifying and discussing the most widely used and most beneficial technologies as well as reasons for slow adoption. Findings from the literature study were used to investigate the state of precision agriculture locally. In order to achieve this, a quantitative approach was used and information was collected by means of an empirical study using a questionnaire. Questionnaires were distributed to farmers using selling agents of an agricultural company that is well represented in the targeted areas. The data was then statistically analysed. The survey showed that only 52% of summer grain producing farmers in the North West and Free State provinces of South Africa practises precision agriculture as defined in the v literature study. The study also revealed that the majority of precision agriculture farmers are over the age of 40, have more than 16 years of farming experience, are well educated, cultivate more than 1,000 hectares and uses none or little irrigation. The most commonly used precision agriculture technologies were grid soil sampling and yield monitors. The perception among most of the farmers was that precision technologies are not very affordable, not easily available and that it lacks proper testing with regards to efficiency. The group of summer grain–producing farmers that have correctly implemented precision agriculture as per definition stated that the benefits they derived from precision technologies include reduction in input costs, increased outputs and improved management skills. Too high implementation costs and technologies not providing enough benefits were among the main reasons farmers do not implement precision agriculture. It was concluded that a significant effort and amount of work is needed to increase the use of precision agriculture among summer grain–producing farmers in the targeted areas. A consolidated effort from government, agricultural institutions and agricultural companies will be needed to achieve this goal. Implementing precision agriculture as a system will require education (from primary to tertiary institutions) and improved marketing strategies. Only then will precision technologies be able to help meet the future demands placed on the agriculture sector. / Thesis (M.B.A.)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2012.