University of Macau / Faculty of Science and Technology / Department of Computer and Information Science

Thesis (MTech (Business Administration))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2017. / Introduction The research looked at the application of project management tools and techniques in ICT SME projects in the Western Cape. Problem Statement Previous literature revealed that small to medium enterprises (SMEs) are vital to developing economies as they provide employment and contribute to overall sustainable economic productivity. Literature further alludes that project management tools and techniques enhance SME’s ability to innovate, grow and compete in industry. However, it is unclear if ICT SMEs in Western Cape are applying project management tools and techniques in their projects. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether ICT SMEs in Western Cape applied these tools and techniques in their projects. Aims / Objectives The primary objective of the research was to determine the extent to which ICT SMEs in Western Cape were using project management tools and techniques. The secondary research objectives were: to determine the extent to which ICT SMEs in Western Cape knew about the project management tools and techniques and how to use them; to establish the extent to which the ICT SMEs knew the benefits of using project management tools and techniques; and to determine the extent to which project management tools and techniques were used by SMEs to achieve success. Methodology The research was non experimental. An electronic questionnaire was distributed using Survey Monkey and Mail Chimp to collect responses. Some questionnaires were hand delivered to ICT SMEs based in the Cape Town CBD areas accessible to the researcher. The results presented in the research were based on a survey of ICT SMEs, located in Western Cape. Out of the 341 responses targeted a total of 210 responses were obtained. The results obtained represent 60- 70% of the population interviewed. The sample was chosen using stratified random sampling that classified the respondents according to organisational hierarchy, and the amount per strata was noted. The respondents within each stratum were chosen using simple random sampling thus eliminating bias.

The primary objective of the research is to develop a methodology for monitoring and measuring IT risks, strictly focusing on internal controls. The research delivers a methodology whereby an organization can measure its system of internal controls, providing assurance that the risks are at an acceptable level. To achieve the primary objective a number of secondary objectives were addressed: What are the drivers forcing organizations to better corporate governance in managing risk? What is IT risk management, specifically focusing on operational risk. What is internal control and specifically focusing on COSO’s internal control process. Investigation of measurement methods, such as, Balance Scorecards, Critical Success Factors, Maturity Models, Key Performance Indicators and Key Goal Indicators. Investigation of various frameworks such as CobiT, COSO and ISO 17799, ITIL and BS 7799 as to how they manage IT risk relating to internal control.

Data warehousing provides organizations with strategic tools to achieve the competitive advantage that organazations are constantly seeking. The use of tools such as data mining, indexing and summaries enables management to retrieve information and perform thorough analysis, planning and forcasting to meet the changes in the market environment. in addition, The data warehouse is providing security measures that, if properly implemented and planned, are helping organizations ensure that their data quality and validity remain intact.

The problem was to determine what are the current computer uses, and training practices for small businesses in the Portland area. Comparisons were made by industry type.

Business educators need to provide relevant career education and train students adequately for entry-level work and success in a dynamic and changing society. It is imperative, then, we identify those skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary for success not only in today's office but also in the office of the future. To determine the competencies and skills required, a survey of businesses in the Clark County area was completed. The questionnaire was designed to assess current computer usage and technical and nontechnical skill requirements.

Although several studies question information technology's contribution to productivity, organizations continue to invest in client/server systems (CSSs) particularly as enablers of business process reengineering (BPR). These efforts may be wasted if they do not improve business processes. This study focused on business processes and investigated the role of workstation-based CSSs in changing business processes. A multiple case study of workstation-based CSS databases in three organizations was performed with the proposition that they moderate the relation between managerial action and changes within business processes. The research framework suggested that changes to business processes are achieved by reducing uncertainty. In order to measure change in business processes, this study categorized business process change into: (1) compressing sequential tasks across functions, (2) compressing tasks vertically within the managerial hierarchy, (3) eliminating slack resources, (4) reducing the distance between the point of decision and the point of information or eliminating intermediaries, (5) reconfiguring sequential processes to operate in parallel, and (6) linking parallel activities during the process. Data collected from questionnaires, interviews, and observations from three case studies were used to construct network diagrams, relationship matrices, reachability matrices, and task tables of business processes. The results of this research partially support the proposition that managerial action affects business process change by reducing uncertainty. This research suggests that changes in the use of workstation-based CSSs are related to changes in business processes. However, because ofthe small sample size, no finding was made regarding changes in the strength of that relationship. Therefore, within its limitations, this research (1) partially supports the proposition that CSSs moderate changes in business processes, (2) found that both favorable and unfavorable changes may result from using CSSs, (3) explains how business process change occurs, and (4) suggests new variables for measuring successful BPR.

M. Tech. (Information Technology, Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences) Vaal University of Technology / A reliable and efficient information system (IS) is critical for Eskom so that it is able to manage and meet its energy demands. A reliable power supply provides stakeholders with the confidence that supply of power is managed sustainably, effectively and efficiently. Thus, an information system is integral in the effective and efficient generation, distribution and transmission of electricity. The purpose of the study was to investigate IS evaluation criteria and to develop a comprehensive framework that will serve as basis for IS evaluation across Eskom. The research study additionally investigated IS evaluation methods and instruments that are currently used in Eskom. This study produced an information systems success evaluation framework. The proposed model was built by reviewing well-established information systems success models and information systems theories found in the literature. This research study followed the interpretive research paradigm combining it with qualitative case study. The research findings linked information systems success to top management support, change management process and information quality. The findings of the study alsorevealed that quality of IS department’s service as perceived by users can greatly influence IS success. The results of this study provided enlightening reference benefit for Eskom, which was in line with Eskom’s goal of improving business processes, efficiencies and eliminating waste.

by Wong Sze-chung John [and] Yau Ying-sum William. / Bibliography: leaves 94-95 / Thesis (M.B.A.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1984

by Stephen Mak Hung Sung. / Thesis (M.B.A.)--Chinese Unversity of Hong Kong, 1990. / Bibliography: leaves B-1-B-3. / ABSTRACT --- p.ii / TABLE OF CONTENTS --- p.iv / LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS --- p.vi / ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS --- p.viii / CHAPTER / Chapter I --- BACKGROUND AND INTRODUCTION --- p.1 / Impact of Information Technology on General Business and The Public Sector --- p.1 / Information Technology Trends --- p.4 / The Need for Systematic Planning for the Use of Information Technology --- p.5 / The Broad Problem Issues of Information --- p.7 / Systems Strategic Planning (ISSP) The Situation in Hong Kong --- p.9 / Chapter II --- REVIEW OF LITERATURE ON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND STRATEGIC PLANNING --- p.12 / Recent Studies --- p.12 / A Refined Statement of the Problem --- p.15 / Chapter III --- A FRAMEWORK FOR SUCCESSFUL ISSP --- p.16 / The Variables --- p.16 / The General Framework for Success --- p.21 / Chapter IV --- A SURVEY ON THE PRACTICE OF ISSP IN HONG KONG --- p.23 / The Survey --- p.23 / The Survey Method --- p.24 / The Survey Results --- p.28 / Interviews with Information Systems Managers --- p.49 / Revisiting the Framework for Successful ISSP --- p.55 / Chapter V --- A GENERIC MODEL FOR THE ISSP PROCESS --- p.59 / Tasks and Methodologies --- p.59 / Affirming the Benefits of ISSP --- p.61 / Relevance of ISSP to Organizations in Hong Kong --- p.63 / Chapter VI --- RECOMMENDATIONS --- p.65 / A Recommended Approach to ISSP --- p.65 / ISSP and the Information Industry --- p.69 / ISSP and the Government --- p.71 / Chapter VII --- CONCLUDING REMARKS --- p.73 / APPENDICES --- p.A1-A5 / BIBLIOGRAPHY --- p.B1-B3