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Cleantech SMEs’ Expectations and Perceptions of an Established Community-based Intermediary Moving into their SectorDahiya, Sushil January 2013 (has links)
Innovation intermediaries provide a range of services to assist firms during the process of innovation. How SMEs perceive innovation intermediaries is an area of investigation that would provide important information on how innovation intermediaries’ assist small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This study focuses on the cleantech industry and explores SMEs’ expectations and perceptions of an established community-based intermediary (CBI) moving into their sector. A qualitative research methodology was adopted to collect data from 15 sample SMEs. In regards to SMEs, the findings show that cleantech companies face financing, partnerships, marketing, sales, regulatory and bureaucratic challenges. In regards to innovation intermediaries, the findings showcase how CBI, a regional intermediary, is not effective in supporting cleantech SMEs with their sector specific needs or challenges.
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Learning experiences of adult African American women at selected Midwest postsecondary institutionsPeck, Laura Content January 1900 (has links)
Doctor of Philosophy / Department of Educational Leadership / Sarah Jane Fishback / This study examined how adult African American women experienced learning at two post-secondary institutions in the Midwest; a diverse, urban community college, and a predominantly white research university. The study also considered how barriers, challenges, responsibilities, and support systems impacted their learning experiences. Gender, race and age were variables of interest, and three theoretical lenses; Belenky, Clinchy, Goldberger and Tarule's Women's Ways of Knowing, McClusky's Theory of Margin/Adult Roles and Responsibilities, and Critical Race Theory were used to explore the participants' experience of learning. This topic was of interest due to the paucity of research conducted in the area of post-secondary institutions, with adult African American women in the Midwest. This study found that learners used active learning, linked their learning to their life experiences, encountered racism, experienced barriers; situational, institutional, dispositional, and information; utilized familial, instructor, peer and spiritual support systems, would benefit from career advising, and that career goal uncertainty was a common obstruction. The women participating in this research were determined, motivated and goal oriented, and served as role models for their children, sought education to improve their lives, and emphasized the importance of education to reach career and life goals.
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The pentecostal challenge to the concept of salvation in liberation theology / Leonard Asonye AmechiAmechi, Leonard Asonye January 2014 (has links)
This study was set up to determine how the concept of biblical salvation is
understood within liberation theology and how the concept is perceived from
Pentecostal standpoint with the aim of developing a theological framework to
challenge the dehumanising influences in contemporary society. The central
argument of this thesis is that, there are irreconcilable differences between
the salvation espoused by liberation theology's praxeological epistemology
and the Pentecostal understanding of the concept etymologically and
hermeneutically speaking. The study further probes whether Pentecostalism
can provide the necessary theological framework that can be used to
challenge the perceived dehumanising influences in contemporary society.
The study achieved its purpose by setting meaningful objectives and following
the appropriate research methodologies. Firstly, the study employed in-depth
textual analysis, historiography, lexicology, and hermeneutic principles to
understand the etymology of salvation from previous scholarship. This effort
helped to elucidate differences that exist between liberation theology and
Pentecostal renderings of the concept. Secondly, the concerns of existing
contributors on the subject were evaluated by researching historical, linguistic
and textual materials as well as exegetical analysis of relevant texts of
Scripture. Thirdly, an in-depth literature analysis was undertaken to ascertain
liberation theology's hermeneutic methodologies. This is necessary to
establish whether the movement is more interested in promoting its ideologies
and preunderstandings rather than biblical salvation.
Fourthly, it was necessary to review the deep concerns expressed by
liberation theology epistemology without compromising the message of the
Gospel. This was achieved by a thorough analysis of social ministries
undertaken by Progressive Pentecostals across the globe. Fifthly, the study
evaluated the Pentecostal criticisms of liberation theology to see if there is
any justification for that. This was achieved through an in-depth exegetical
and hermeneutic analysis using word studies, theological dictionaries, bible commentaries, and by reviewing scholarly articles on the subject matter.
Lastly, by analysing the difference between Pentecostal and liberation
theologies, it was clear that their methods of operations are different. This
goes to explain why Pentecostalism is growing exponentially while liberation
theology is declining. The outcome of this analysis also explains why
Pentecostalism is a better alternative in addressing the challenges facing our
global community. / PhD (Dogmatics), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2014
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Challenges faced during implementation of a compressed air energy savings project on a gold mine / Gerhardus Petrus HeynsHeyns, Gerhardus Petrus January 2014 (has links)
MIng (Electrical and Electronic Engineering), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015 / Demand side management (DSM) initiatives have been introduced by Eskom to reduce the
deficit between the electricity generation capacity and the electricity usage within the country.
DSM projects enable Eskom to reduce electricity demand instead of increasing generation
capacity. DSM projects are more economical and can be implemented much faster than
constructing a new power station.
One particular industry where DSM projects can be implemented is on mines. Mines consume
about 14.5% of South Africa’s electricity. Producing compressed air, in particular, is one of the
largest electricity users on mines. It consumes 17% of the electricity used on mines. The
opportunity, therefore, arises to implement DSM projects on the compressed air system of mines.
Not only do these projects reduce Eskom’s high electricity demand, but they also induce
financial and energy savings for the mine itself.
However, during the implementation of a compressed air energy savings project, various
challenges arise. These include, among others, operational changes, control limitations, industrial
actions and installation delays. All of these can lead to a project not being delivered on time,
within budget or with quality results.
The purpose of this study is to investigate and address various problems that occur during the
implementation of such a compressed air energy savings project. The study shows that although
these problems have an impact on the results achievable with the project, significant savings are
still possible.
Project savings are achieved by reducing the amount of compressed air that is supplied, thereby
delivering sufficient compressed air while minimising the amount of compressed air being
wasted. During this study, a gold mine’s compressed air network was optimised. The
optimisation resulted in an evening peak-clip saving of 2.61 MW. This saving was achieved
daily between 18:00 and 20:00 when Eskom’s electricity demand was at its highest. It is
equivalent to an annual cost saving of R1.46 million based on Eskom’s 2014/2015 tariffs. When
savings from all periods throughout the day are taken into account, the project will produce an
annual cost saving of R1.91 million.
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The pentecostal challenge to the concept of salvation in liberation theology / Leonard Asonye AmechiAmechi, Leonard Asonye January 2014 (has links)
This study was set up to determine how the concept of biblical salvation is
understood within liberation theology and how the concept is perceived from
Pentecostal standpoint with the aim of developing a theological framework to
challenge the dehumanising influences in contemporary society. The central
argument of this thesis is that, there are irreconcilable differences between
the salvation espoused by liberation theology's praxeological epistemology
and the Pentecostal understanding of the concept etymologically and
hermeneutically speaking. The study further probes whether Pentecostalism
can provide the necessary theological framework that can be used to
challenge the perceived dehumanising influences in contemporary society.
The study achieved its purpose by setting meaningful objectives and following
the appropriate research methodologies. Firstly, the study employed in-depth
textual analysis, historiography, lexicology, and hermeneutic principles to
understand the etymology of salvation from previous scholarship. This effort
helped to elucidate differences that exist between liberation theology and
Pentecostal renderings of the concept. Secondly, the concerns of existing
contributors on the subject were evaluated by researching historical, linguistic
and textual materials as well as exegetical analysis of relevant texts of
Scripture. Thirdly, an in-depth literature analysis was undertaken to ascertain
liberation theology's hermeneutic methodologies. This is necessary to
establish whether the movement is more interested in promoting its ideologies
and preunderstandings rather than biblical salvation.
Fourthly, it was necessary to review the deep concerns expressed by
liberation theology epistemology without compromising the message of the
Gospel. This was achieved by a thorough analysis of social ministries
undertaken by Progressive Pentecostals across the globe. Fifthly, the study
evaluated the Pentecostal criticisms of liberation theology to see if there is
any justification for that. This was achieved through an in-depth exegetical
and hermeneutic analysis using word studies, theological dictionaries, bible commentaries, and by reviewing scholarly articles on the subject matter.
Lastly, by analysing the difference between Pentecostal and liberation
theologies, it was clear that their methods of operations are different. This
goes to explain why Pentecostalism is growing exponentially while liberation
theology is declining. The outcome of this analysis also explains why
Pentecostalism is a better alternative in addressing the challenges facing our
global community. / PhD (Dogmatics), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2014
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Challenges faced during implementation of a compressed air energy savings project on a gold mine / Gerhardus Petrus HeynsHeyns, Gerhardus Petrus January 2014 (has links)
MIng (Electrical and Electronic Engineering), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015 / Demand side management (DSM) initiatives have been introduced by Eskom to reduce the
deficit between the electricity generation capacity and the electricity usage within the country.
DSM projects enable Eskom to reduce electricity demand instead of increasing generation
capacity. DSM projects are more economical and can be implemented much faster than
constructing a new power station.
One particular industry where DSM projects can be implemented is on mines. Mines consume
about 14.5% of South Africa’s electricity. Producing compressed air, in particular, is one of the
largest electricity users on mines. It consumes 17% of the electricity used on mines. The
opportunity, therefore, arises to implement DSM projects on the compressed air system of mines.
Not only do these projects reduce Eskom’s high electricity demand, but they also induce
financial and energy savings for the mine itself.
However, during the implementation of a compressed air energy savings project, various
challenges arise. These include, among others, operational changes, control limitations, industrial
actions and installation delays. All of these can lead to a project not being delivered on time,
within budget or with quality results.
The purpose of this study is to investigate and address various problems that occur during the
implementation of such a compressed air energy savings project. The study shows that although
these problems have an impact on the results achievable with the project, significant savings are
still possible.
Project savings are achieved by reducing the amount of compressed air that is supplied, thereby
delivering sufficient compressed air while minimising the amount of compressed air being
wasted. During this study, a gold mine’s compressed air network was optimised. The
optimisation resulted in an evening peak-clip saving of 2.61 MW. This saving was achieved
daily between 18:00 and 20:00 when Eskom’s electricity demand was at its highest. It is
equivalent to an annual cost saving of R1.46 million based on Eskom’s 2014/2015 tariffs. When
savings from all periods throughout the day are taken into account, the project will produce an
annual cost saving of R1.91 million.
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International learning : the role of transnational corporations in the development of small businesses' international competitiveness in South AfricaMfeka, Bhekuyise Nicholas January 2007 (has links)
Submitted in fulfilment of part of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Technology in the Faculty of Management
Sciences at Durban University of Technology, 2007 / The South African small business sector, particularly the manufacturing industries, such as textile, clothing, and automotive industries, are not considered internationally competitive. This shortcoming is seen in the context of liberalizing and transforming the South African economy, and the threat of foreign
competition such as China. This study takes a systems view of the problems that are facing small businesses in South Africa, drawing on historical, theoretical and
empirical sources within a proposed framework for small business international
learning. The various elements in the framework include international
competitiveness challenges facing small businesses, which, the author argues,
create tension for survival within small businesses; the limited role of the small
business support regime in South Africa; and the role of Foreign Direct Investment through Transnational Corporations (TNCs). Therefore, this study investigates the international learning processes of small businesses and develops a new theoretical model to illustrate and elucidate interventions to strengthen international learning processes of these small businesses.
Methodology
The manufacturing sector was chosen as the ideal sector for this study since it
contributes significantly to the GDP and levels of employment of a country, and is
at the receiving end of new production methodologies and technologies and
other competition dynamics. This sector, at a small business level, is currently
experiencing international competitiveness challenges in South Africa. The methodology followed an initial exploratory, qualitative approach followed by a formal, empirical, quantitative approach. The research questionnaire met the quality criteria as established through content validity, criterion related validity, and reliability criteria. This questionnaire was administered to a sample of 300 out of a population of 800 manufacturing small firms in Durban, using an unrestricted random probability sampling method. A total of 255 completed questionnaires were returned, and the results were expressed at the 95%
confidence level with a confidence interval of 0.05.
Results and Discussions
From the correlation analysis of the level of importance and extent of implementation of international learning processes, four international learning processes, whose implementation can be enhanced by an improvement in the importance of international competitiveness challenges and support, were extracted. These international learning processes include increased learning
activities on management, sales and marketing, finance, and also the image of
small businesses.
Through the consolidation of the results of the correlation analysis, a theoretical
model for the identification and development of international learning processes
was created.
Conclusion
From the small business practice and policy point of view, this study s findings
suggest that the international learning processes of small businesses confronted
by international competitiveness challenges in transforming developing economies can be strengthened by applying the theoretical model developed in this study. From the government, TNCs, and small businesses perspective, this study s findings also suggest that the establishment of linkage programmes and enhancement of learning activities, which revolve around the identified international learning processes as established in the theoretical model, will
enable the attainment of international competitiveness of small businesses. This
study, therefore, proposes the implementation, in the short-term, of information and linkage support at sector level that addresses the enhancement of the
identified international learning processes; and the implementation, in the longterm,
of a grand-scale small businesses and TNCs linkage programme in line with the premise provided in the theoretical model.
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Emotional dissonance among UK animal technologists : evidence, impact and management implicationsDavies, Keith January 2014 (has links)
The care and welfare of laboratory animals born, nurtured and experimented upon within a research facility is the primary function for animal technologists. While discharging these responsibilities the emotional needs of the carers require consideration, balancing their perceptions of animal care against the purpose for which the animals exist. As little published information is available on the emotional challenges faced by UK animal technologists, this thesis redresses the balance, exploring the subject in detail through qualitative and quantitative methods. Emotional dissonance, often expressed as felt emotion versus enacted emotion, is a negative output from Emotional Labour. Animal technologists operate in a service environment and the results demonstrate that they ‘act’ under duress and self-regulate which emotions to display. Using exploratory factor analysis the results illustrate two key drivers on felt and enacted emotions. These include internal elements associated with daily tasks elements such as euthanasia and external factors such as budgets over which they have little or no control. Emotional dissonance is shown to occur within various employment grades. Resultant emotions include, guilt, shame and sadness. These can lead to affects upon job satisfaction propagating feelings of workplace alienation, isolation and fear, particularly from antivivisectionist organisations. When organisational support was not forthcoming or lacked empathy, individuals deployed various coping methods. This demonstrates both management and organisational implications including gender, educational attainment and whether a person has staff supervision responsibilities. Observations drawn through both qualitative and quantitative research clearly signpost a spectrum of indicators of emotional dissonance leading to individual, managerial and organisational theoretical implications. In doing so, emotion knowledge has been increased on a previously under researched occupational sector existing within a largely secretive environment. The research on a hitherto largely unknown employment grouping provides insights that had previously existed only mainly in anecdotal ways. The results provide strong evidence to further support existing research demonstrating how roles with significant emotional components directly impact upon individuals and the organisations that employ them.
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An innovative framework for implementing lean principles in product-service systemElnadi, Moustafa January 2015 (has links)
The aim of this research project is to develop an innovative framework to implement lean principles in Product-Service System (PSS) with the capability of assessing the leanness level of the services offering process. The framework comprises three implementation phases namely: assessment of the current state, developing a future state, and stabilising the new way of operations. Additionally, the framework covers the enablers, factors, and appropriate lean tools required for the successful implementation of lean practices in Product-Service System (PSS), as well as, the challenges that may obstacle the implementation process. The proposed framework has integrated an assessment model that provides a quantifiable measure of the leanness level of Product-Service System (PSS). Five main enablers and thirty three factors emerging from these main enablers deemed to be critical for the successful implementation of lean practices in Product-Service System (PSS). Moreover, a series of eight inhibitors appeared to block the implementation process. The Product-Service System leanness assessment model was developed upon three main levels, namely: enablers, criteria, and attributes. The first level contains five enablers. These enablers are supplier relationship, management leanness, workforce leanness, process excellence, and customer relationship. In the second level there are twenty one criteria such as: supplier delivery, culture of management and process optimisation. Finally, the third level consists of seventy three attributes. By using multi-grade fuzzy approach the PSS leanness index was computed and areas for further improvement were identified. A combination of research methodology approaches has been employed in this research. Firstly, an extensive literature review related to lean and PSS was conducted. Secondly, the qualitative approach and the case study were selected as an appropriate methodology for this research, using semi-structured and structured interview techniques to gather the required data from experts who are involved in lean projects in their companies. Finally, validation of the results was carried out using real life industrial case studies and experts judgment. Case studies demonstrate that the framework provides guidelines for manufacturing companies that aim to implement lean principles in Product-Service System (PSS). The framework enables manufacturing companies to better satisfy their customers’ needs through responding quickly to their changing demands; to improve the service offering process through reducing the creation of wastes and non-value added activities; and to improve competitiveness through increasing customers’ value. Additionally, the PSS leanness index is useful for improving the service offering process. The index provides manufacturing companies with a real insight into the leanness level of their service offering, as well as, it provides managers with a quantifiable measure of how lean their PSS is. The index identifies the gap between the current state and the future state and this helps in determining areas for further improvement.
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If You Risk Nothing: You Risk Everything : A qualitative multiple-case study of Swedish firms’ risk, opportunity and challenge perceptions in the transitioning economy of Cuba.Pletikos, Viktoria, Törngren, Jessica January 2016 (has links)
This thesis comprehends a notable research gap through its exploration of risk and opportunity perception for Swedish firms’ internationalizing to Cuba, by conducting a multiple-case study of three Swedish firms’. A qualitative research method has been used in accordance with an abductive approach. The conceptual framework illustrates the correlation between the theories, which has been applied to the empirical findings. Conclusions derived throughout the analysis and the significant theoretical implications demonstrate answers to the dominance of arbitrage opportunities. Empirical implications illustrate why risks and opportunities might be acknowledged differently due to industry, whereas managerial implications emphasize the importance for Swedish firms’ to understand the complexity impregnating the business environment.
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