Department of Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship

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http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11837/196

The Department of Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship collection preserves and provides access to the academic work and research outputs of staff and students. This collection includes theses and dissertations, research publications, conference papers, and examination question papers. The Department focuses on developing expertise in business innovation, entrepreneurship, and the application of information systems in business management and enterprise development. By combining entrepreneurial thinking with digital and technological skills, students are prepared to create sustainable businesses, drive innovation, and adapt to the demands of a rapidly evolving global economy. By making these resources available, the collection supports teaching, learning, and research, while fostering an entrepreneurial culture, digital transformation, and community development within the University and beyond.

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 85

A cloud computing adoption framework for financial service institutions in South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2015-12) Introna, Nicolette
Financial service providers in South Africa are failing to leverage the benefits that cloud computing could contribute to their business and clients. The primary objectives of cloud computing include reducing overall Information Technology (IT) service costs and processing time whilst increasing process throughput, reliability, availability and flexibility. However, despite these advantages, both strategically and operationally, there is still a relatively slow adoption rate. This can be attributed to the potential pitfalls of the technology such as security concerns, failure downtime resulting from server maintenance or unforeseen outages, implementation complexity and compatibility issues. Very few migration readiness assessment strategies exist, and those that do exist are focused at a much higher level of abstraction.
A Comparison of Open Source Native XML Database Products
(University of Fort Hare, 2005-12) Mabanza, Ntima
Since the advent of XML technology, one of the areas where it has made its mark is in data interchange between applications or businesses. As a result, there has been an increase in the number of XML documents generated from business transactions. Consequently, there is considerable work being done in the database research community with the aim to develop software to effectively process and manage XML documents. Open Source Native XML database systems are one example of a new generation of database technologies developed to address this issue. The decision to adopt these technologies can be based on several factors depending on the user's needs.
A framework for cyber safety awareness amongst first-year students in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2025-05) Makazhe, Everjoy C; Piderit, R; Mamba, M; Chindenga, E
Technology has impacted every part of our daily lives and supports different activities ranging from communications, games, trade and commerce. Students also benefit from social networks, enabling quicker access to information and communication. The outbreak of Covid-19 resulted in a transition from traditional learning to online learning. However, the online learning environment brought a surge in cyber hazards, threats and assaults. In light of this, a cyber safety framework for first-year university students in the Eastern Cape of South Africa was required. The pragmatism research paradigm influenced the study, resulting in a quantitative research design selection. Online surveys created on the Survey Monkey platform were used to collect data. Several closed-ended questions used a Likert scale with a score of four (4). Microsoft Excel and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) were used for data analysis and display. Experts then reviewed the proposed framework in the field to evaluate its suitability for the higher education context. The feedback was incorporated into the final framework proposed by this study. The study's results revealed that university students' main online risks were cyber bullying, phishing scams, identity fraud, invitations to pornography and sexting. The more time the students spend online, the more online risks they face. The study's findings further showed that the level of cyber security knowledge leads to cyber safety awareness among first-year students in Eastern Cape. Research findings indicated that there are mixed cyber security attitudes, which affect cyber safety awareness. The factors required to develop the framework include attitude, risk, time, awareness and knowledge capacitation. Based on the study's findings, future research can use a sequential mixed methods approach to determine the views of key informants from universities, service providers and even parents on the different measures they provide to ensure cyber safety.
A situational awareness framework for mitigating health misinformation: A case for the COVID-19 vaccine
(University of Fort Hare, 2025-04) Manene, Sivile; Cilliers, Liezel
The rapid increase in social media usage during the COVID-19 pandemic created an environment for the rapid dissemination of health misinformation, contributing to public confusion and mistrust in health authorities. During the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization adopted the term 'infodemic' to describe the widespread dissemination of both accurate and incorrect health information, highlighting its impact on vaccine acceptance and public health outcomes. This study, therefore, aimed to develop a situational awareness framework to mitigate health misinformation on social media. This research explores how a situational awareness framework could mitigate the impact of health misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccine on social media users. The objectives were to determine how misinformation contributed to vaccine hesitancy, investigate existing strategies for combating misinformation on social media, and examine how situational awareness could help users identify and manage health-related misinformation. By addressing these areas, this study developed insights into enhancing public health communication and reducing the influence of information disorder. This study adopted a quantitative research approach grounded in a positivist philosophy. A survey questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 214 participants aged 18 to 35, selected through a non-probability convenience sampling technique. The questionnaire was distributed online, targeting young adult social media users. The data was analysed using SPSS and SmartPLS 4.0. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) with regression coefficients was applied to test the relationships between the scales and underlying variables. The results indicate that Perceived Susceptibility (PSU) (β = 0.189, p = 0.010), Perceived Severity (PSEV) (β = 0.288, p = 0.001), Health Motivation (HM) (β = 0.462, p = 0.000), Perceived Benefits (PBE) (β = 0.221, p = 0.020), and Cue to Action (CA) (β = 0.281, p = 0.000) significantly influenced Behavioural Intent (BI) to address COVID-19 vaccine misinformation. Self-efficacy (PSE) (β = -0.251, p = 0.008) had a negative effect, while Perceived Barriers (PBA) (β = -0.028, p = 0.647) did not significantly affect BI. This study developed a situational awareness framework to mitigate COVID-19 vaccine misinformation on social media. The findings reveal that perceived susceptibility, severity, health motivation, benefits, and cues to action significantly influence users' intention to address misinformation, while perceived barriers do not. The framework offers practical insights for public health authorities and social media platforms to enhance communication and real-time monitoring. Future research should expand its scope and validate its effectiveness across diverse contexts.
Absorptive capacity and information technology adoption strategies in Kenyan SMEs
(University of Fort Hare, 2013) Ndiege, Joshua Rumo Arongo; Herselman, Marlien E; Flowerday, Stephen V
Although Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), arguably, make up a significant part of economic development in many countries, these enterprises have continued to face challenges especially in developing countries like Kenya. With Information Technology (IT) being considered a critical component of the survival of SMEs, many are striving to invest in it. However, a number of these SMEs are still far from realising the full potential of their IT investments. In today‟s challenging and dynamic business environment, SMEs need to leverage both internal and external knowledge, exploit it to help improve and maintain their competitiveness, and consequently, their survival. This study has endeavoured to address the IT adoption strategy challenges experienced by SMEs in Kenya and other developing countries, as these have been largely flawed. The study has explored on the way in which these enterprises can build strong Absorptive Capacities (AC) and exploit these to improve their IT adoption processes through a model of AC. To achieve this, a qualitative, interpretive case study research approach was employed in this study. The findings of this study suggest that although AC plays a critical role in the performance of SMEs in Kenya, many of these enterprises have low levels of AC. It also became clear that all the SMEs that participated in the study had not attained maturity in their IT adoption process. However, SMEs that exhibited strong AC employed the use of more superior IT adoption processes than did their counterparts with low levels of AC. From the results of this study an IT Adoption Strategy Improvement Model (ITASIM) has been developed to help SMEs improve their IT adoption strategies. The model focuses on improving SMEs‟ AC and injecting these alongside the elements of a good strategy in the SMEs‟ IT adoption process. Furthermore, in order to help in the effective implementation of ITASIM, implementation guidelines have been developed.
Adoption and sustained use of M-Commerce to improve efficacy of construction SMMEs
(University of Fort Hare, 2011) Williams, Zenande; Flowerday, Stephen; Isabirye, Naomi
E-commerce has been said to bring value to businesses by improving business efficiency and effectiveness and thus providing business with a competitive advantage through the potential benefits that it offers (Cloete, Courtney & Fintz, 2002). However, despite the potential benefits that e-commerce can offer, the adoption of B2C e-commerce in South African construction SMMEs is low and this is due to the challenges associated with e-commerce (Vaithanathan, 2010; Uzoka, Shemi & Seleka, 2007; Love & Irani, 2004; Anumba & Ruikar, 2002). These e-commerce challenges include: high implementation costs, lack or poor infrastructure, inadequate resources, low use of e-commerce by suppliers and consumers, lack of access to e-commerce, computer illiteracy, deficiency in understanding the potential benefits of e-commerce and security concerns (Vaithanathan, 2010; Uzoka, Shemi, & Seleka, 2007; Mensah, Bahta, & Mhlanga, 2005; Cloete, Courtney, & Fintz, 2002). Therefore, due to these e-commerce challenges, construction SMMEs do not exploit the business advantages that e-commerce offers. In order to assist South African construction SMMEs in their efforts to improve their business effectiveness and efficiency through commercial technologies.
Adoption and use of a learning management system at the University of Fort Hare: environmental factors
(University of Fort Hare, 2010-12) Xazela, M W H M; Flowerday, S; Piderit, R
Learning Management Systems are adopted and used by institutions of higher learning such as universities, universities of technology and colleges. The acceptance of integrating Learning Management Systems into the traditional classroom method of teaching and learning presents many challenges to academic staff, students, and management at various levels. If such challenges are not addressed they may lead to project failure. If such projects fail, institutions may not realise the returns on their investments as institutions usually allocate many of their resources to start such projects. This study addresses the question of which critical environmental and management success factors are necessary for the successful acceptance of such a technology and what is necessary for such a technology to be used continually. This study examines Information Systems literature, users‘ environmental and management factors, and perceptions in the context of an institution of higher learning to suggest Critical Success Factors for such a project. Critical Success Factors are identified and discussed under the contexts of Management Support, the appointment of a Project Champion, provision of training to project participants, provision of adequate access to computing resources, monitoring and evaluation of the project, the existence of strong communication channels, and creation of positive perceptions about the target technology. Acceptance models such as Technology Acceptance Model and the Expectation Confirmation Model in Information Systems literature are also taken into consideration in coming up with the suggested Critical Success Factors.,Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2010
Adoption of IT Systems by HR professionals in order to enhance efficacy at the University of Fort Hare
(University of Fort Hare, 2010) Ngqubekile, Nolufefe; Flowerday, Stephen
This study seeks to address the adoption of Integrated Tertiary Software (ITS), ease of use of ITS and continuous usage in Human Resources Departments. The focus of this research project is User Acceptance and Continued Use of ITS within the HR Department - the case of Fort Hare University. The University is a multi - campus operation and the use of paper systems is extremely difficult. The University made a decision to invest in ITS with the objective of improving effectiveness and efficiency of services. The nature of the problem is that ITS is partially used and it is necessary to further explore the specific influence of technological and environmental factors that may change the user’s acceptance and use of this IT System. The nature of this study is Qualitative and follows an Interpretive Approach. The Research Instrument used is an in-depth questionnaire distributed and responded to by all HR Professionals at the UFH. Recommendations based on findings will be used to design the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) for the Adoption of IT Systems by HR Professionals in order to enhance efficacy at the University of Fort Hare. The CSFs can be generalized to other settings and were identified for the UFH HR Department to include.,Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce , 2010
An Investigation of the Critical Success Factors of a Rural Telecentre with an emphasis on Knowledge Sharing
(University of Fort Hare, 2007) Muwanga, Zake
The rapid development and use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) is having a direct and dramatic impact on all aspects of life. ICTs present a challenging and unique opportunity, with the potential to reshape and transform the ways in which people organise their lives, interact with each other and participate in various spheres of society (Bridges.org, 1996).
Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool to address academic challenges in South African higher education
(University of Fort Hare, 2024-11-29) Funda, Vusumzi; Mbangeleli, Noluthando Busiswa Agape
This systematic literature review (SLR) study explores artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool to address academics challenges in South African higher education. Numerous difficulties beset higher education system in South Africa, such as a lack of funding, high student-to-lecturer ratios, and unequal access to high-quality education. Relevant academic databases, such as PubMed, Google Scholar, ERIC, and Web of Science, was searched using a combination of keywords relating to South African higher education, AI in education, academic issues, and AI technologies. A total of twenty (20) documents were identified and used in this study. The examination looks at how AI is currently being used, how it affects how people teach and learn, and the opportunities and challenges that come with using it in this setting. The results show that artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, including automated assessment tools, intelligent tutoring systems, and adaptive learning platforms, have the potential to improve personalized learning experiences, boost student engagement and academic performance, and facilitate effective management of educational resources. However, overcoming several issues, such as a lack of technological know-how, restricted infrastructure, concerns about equity, and ethical implications is necessary for the successful integration of AI in South African higher education. It encourages educators, politicians, and technology experts to work together to establish long-term solutions for incorporating AI into teaching and learning processes while maintaining inclusivity, equity and ethical issues.
Artificial intelligence-powered decision support system for operational decision-making in the ICT department of a selected African university
(Taylor and Francis Group, Routledge, 2024-09-16) Funda, Vusumzi; Francke, Errol
This paper aims to explore the effect of an artificial intelligence-enabled decision support system (AIDSS) on decisionmaking processes within a university setting, focusing on the ICT department of a selected South African university. The research objectives revolve around the effectiveness of AIDSS in enhancing decision-making in higher education institutions. Convenience sampling was employed in this study and a questionnaire administered to 28 participants. These methods were chosen to gather insights into the practical application of AI technology in the context of IT operational decision-making. The major findings of this research reveal that AIDSS has the potential to significantly improve decision-making processes in higher education. Despite these advancements, the research acknowledges the ethical and societal implications arising from AI integration, underscoring the importance of achieving a balance between technical advancement and the upholding of human values. As a major policy implication, this study underscores the importance of embracing AI technologies in higher education institutions to enhance decision-making processes, thus improving the efficiency and effectiveness of IT operations. The original contribution of this research lies in its exploration of the practical use of AIDSS in South African higher education, offering insights into how AI can be harnessed to advance decision-making.
Benefits and challenges of AIOPS adoption and usage in HEIs in developing countries
(Stellenbosch University, 2024-11) Funda, Vusumzi; Francke, Errol
Adopting Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations (AIOps) holds transformative potential within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in developing countries. This systematic literature review delves into the benefits, challenges, and emerging trends associated with AIOps integration in this context. The review encompasses studies published between 2013 and 2023, focusing on the academic, administrative, and operational dimensions of AIOps adoption. The synthesis of 12 selected studies reveals a landscape where AIOps augments pedagogical strategies, automates administrative tasks, and enhances institutional decision-making. Academic benefits manifest through personalised learning experiences, innovative pedagogical approaches, and predictive analytics for student success. However, the integration of AIOps is full of challenges. Technical hurdles encompass data quality and availability, compatibility, and resource constraints, requiring comprehensive technological foundations. Organisational and cultural challenges necessitate strategies to mitigate change resistance, provide staff training, and address ethical considerations. The review identifies emerging patterns such as collaborative learning environments, data-driven institutional management, and the moral integration of AI in education. The interplay of benefits and challenges underscores the importance of a holistic approach involving educators, technologists, administrators, and policymakers. The findings illuminate the potential for HEIs to harness AIOps's capabilities while navigating intricacies to foster an AI-enhanced educational landscape. The implications for HEIs encompass strategic investment in infrastructure, comprehensive staff training, and ethical frameworks for AI use. The article concludes by advocating for an adaptive approach to AIOps adoption, informed by the synthesis of benefits, challenges, and emerging trends, to shape the future of education in developing countries.
Big data use at an automotive manufacturer: a framework to address privacy concerns in Hadoop Technology.
(University of Fort Hare, 2021-11) Padayachee, Prenisha; Piderit, R
An automotive manufacturer can generate big data through accessible data points from internal and external Internet of Things (IoT) data sources connected to the production line. Big data analytics needs to be applied to these large and complex datasets to realise the associated opportunities, such as an improved manufacturing process, optimised supply chain management, competitive advantage and business growth. In order to store, manage and process the data, automotive manufacturers are using Apache Hadoop technology. Apache Hadoop is a cost-effective, scalable, and fault-tolerant technology. However, there has been a concern raised regarding the privacy of big data in Apache Hadoop. A key challenge in Hadoop technology is its ineffective security model, making the data susceptible to unauthorised users. Consequently, a breach in data privacy results in automotive manufacturers becoming victims of theft of trade secrets and intellectual property via corporate spies. This theft has a negative impact and results in the loss of company reputation, business competitiveness and business growth in the automotive market. This study investigated a solution to ensure big data privacy when using Hadoop technology. The Selective Organisational Information Privacy and Security Violations Model (SOIPSVM) and the Capability Maturity Model (CMM) provided the theoretical base for this study. The researcher undertook a literature analysis and qualitative study to understand and address the identified research problem. The primary data was collected from ten Information Technology (IT) specialists at a local automotive manufacturer. These specialists participated in an interview session, which also included the completion of a questionnaire. All questions were pre-determined and open-ended, and the participants' responses were recorded. Primary data was analysed using the inductive approach by identifying relevant themes and sub-themes. In contrast, the literature analysis included academic journals, conference proceedings, websites, and books, which were critically discussed in this study. This study's findings indicated various measures to be implemented by the automotive manufacturer to address the research problem. Critical success factors were derived from the identified measures, which addressed significant data privacy issues in using Hadoop technology. The identified critical success factors included: control of internal and external data sources; monitor the value of big data towards improving the automotive manufacturing process and user behaviour; implementation of user authentication; encryption to secure data; disaster recovery and backup plan; execution of authorisation and Access Control List (ACLS); conduct audits and regular reviews of user access to data; apply data masking to sensitive data and tokenization to secure data; build own infrastructure to store and analyse data; install regular security updates and update passwords regularly. Each factor had a purpose that examined big data management, governance and compliance in detail. The identified factors contributed towards ensuring data privacy in the use of Hadoop technology. These factors were categorised into contextual and rule and regulatory conditions adopted from the SOIPSVM. Identified conditions were then aligned to the five-level CMM. Each condition was expanded upon at various maturity levels to form a framework that addressed the main research problem. The framework's application was described as an independent assessment of each critical success factor and provided a guide through various maturity levels. The framework's purpose was to address and overcome big data privacy concerns in using Hadoop technology at a local automotive manufacturer.,Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
A bring your own device information security behavioural model
(University of Fort Hare, 2017) Musarurwa, Alfred; Flowerday, Stephen; Cilliers, Liezel
The Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) phenomenon has become prevalent in the modern-day workplace, including the banking industry. Employees who own devices have become the unintended administrators of the organisation’s information as their mobile devices often carry information belonging to the organisation. The unintended administrator is not necessarily schooled or aware of the information security risks and challenges that are associated with the BYOD. This inadvertently shifts the management of organisational information security from the information technology (IT) administrator to the unintended administrator. This shift leaves the organisation at risk of information security breaches that can permeate the organisation, which result from the behaviour that the unintended administrator displays when operating the mobile device. This study introduces the BYOD Information Security Behavioural (BISB) model. The model constructs are a combination of individual and organisational traits of the unintended administrator. The purpose of this study is to mitigate the risks posed by the unintended administrator in organisations through the implementation this model. The risk that the unintended administrator poses in relation to the BYOD phenomenon results in chief information officers (CIOs) being unable to totally control these mobile devices. Traditional endpoint information security management tools and methods can no longer secure devices in the BYOD the way they can in the traditional network where they are confined to the organisation’s IT administrator. This results in the organisation’s information security becoming the responsibility of the unintended administrator. This study was conducted in the banking sector in Zimbabwe. It is noteworthy that the BYOD phenomenon has become prevalent in the banking sector among other organisational sectors like education, health or even government departments. Information security is also an important component of the banks as such and a choice was made to conduct the study in the banking industry. The design science research paradigm was followed in this study and included a survey of 270 bank employees in Zimbabwe, which received 170 complete responses. A literature review on both employee behaviour and organisational culture was conducted, followed by a case study of a commercial bank in Zimbabwe. The literature review culminated in traits that were then classified as individual traits and organisational traits. Six constructs –, knowledge, attitude, habit, environment, governance and training – were identified from the literature and combined to form the BYOD information security behavioural (BISB) model. Statistical calculations were conducted on the survey results which informed the reliability, validity and rigour of the model constructs. An expert review including industry experts was conducted to evaluate the BISB model. This study concludes by recommending that organisations in Zimbabwe should make use of the BISB model to mitigate the information security risks that are posed by the unintended administrator. While there are technical solutions for managing the information security risks that come with the BYOD, this study points out that without harnessing the individual and organisational traits that make up the BYOD information security behavioural model for the unintended administrator, technical solutions alone will not be effective.
Business Mathematics: AMB 121F, November degree examinations 2016
(University of Fort Hare, 2016) Makamba, B.B.; Mahlasela, Z.
A cloud computing adoption framework for financial service institutions in South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2015) Introna, Nicolette
Financial service providers in South Africa are failing to leverage the benefits that cloud computing could contribute to their business and clients. The primary objectives of cloud computing include reducing overall Information Technology (IT) service costs and processing time whilst increasing process throughput, reliability, availability and flexibility. However, despite these advantages, both strategically and operationally, there is still a relatively slow adoption rate. This can be attributed to the potential pitfalls of the technology such as security concerns, failure downtime resulting from server maintenance or unforeseen outages, implementation complexity and compatibility issues. Very few migration readiness assessment strategies exist, and those that do exist are focused at a much higher level of abstraction. No framework exists within which financial service providers can assess the feasibility or readiness of their unique financial services for cloud computing. The development and demand for cloud industry standards (including the assessment of service readiness) is the foremost concern of IT decision makers. This research project examines ways in which South African financial service providers are able to increase the rate of adoption of cloud computing services. To achieve this financial service providers require a means to increase adoption level of cloud computing. The contribution of this research project is a framework based on the Technology Organisation Environment Framework (TOE) that medium-sized financial organisations can make use of in order to assess the feasibility of their financial services for the adoption of cloud computing. The research project applies design science to produce an extensive framework which financial services organisations can use to evaluate their readiness for the adoption of cloud computing. The findings of the research suggest that there is strong interest from employees within financial services organisations to explore cloud computing as a means to improve the value they are already able to offer clients.
Community engagement principles for implementation of information and communication technology for development projects by higher education institutions in South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2017) Nkombachoto, Jacquiline; Isabirye, Naomi; Thinyane, Mamello
Community engagement in South Africa is now recognised as an integral part of Higher Education Institutions’ (HEIs) educational system. The South African Council on Higher Education requires HEIs to become equitable institutions of higher learning, whereby the activities of the HEI are mutually beneficial for both learners and their communities. This entails that, community engagement activities undertaken by HEIs should be reciprocal in nature. The HEIs should help solve issues affecting their communities, whilst also gaining knowledge through experiential learning. One such way is through undertaking Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D) projects in communities outside the physical boundaries of the HEI. Over the years, HEIs in South Africa have been involved in undertaking ICT4D projects aimed at benefiting their communities. This is because ICTs have the potential to improve and contribute to the development of individuals, businesses, and communities in various ways, be it socially or economically. However, the ICT4D projects have failed or partially succeeded to attain their goals. This study, thus proposes a model for HEI researchers for the successful implementation of ICT4D projects through application of community engagement principles. The proposed model was formulated using the case study approach. Four cases of ICT4D projects were used as sample to help identify factors required for the successful implementation of ICT4D projects by HEIs. Data was collected using semi structured interviews, observations and literature. The data was then analysed using cross case analysis in the form of themes. The findings were that operational community engagement policies, understanding user needs, creation of long term partnerships, synchronisation of timelines and monitoring and evaluation are vital for the successful implementation of ICT4D projects by HEI researchers in the communities.
A contingency management framework to mitigate cybersecurity threats to electronic health records in the public health sector in South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2021-11) Ngxabane, Mbulelo; Cilliers, L; Boucher, D
Most developing countries in the African continent, including South Africa, seem to be lagging behind in research, policy development, and how to prevent cybersecurity threats. These findings are evident in the significant number of cyberattacks recorded in the Cost of Data Breach Study and Global Analysis by Ponemon Institute. Research studies are placing the blame on the element of portability in electronic health records (EHRs) that has contributed to numerous vulnerabilities to hospital healthcare data. As a result, the healthcare information of patients in those hospitals that are equipped with interconnected medical devices is exposed to cybersecurity threats. The purpose of the study was to develop a healthcare contingency management framework that can be used by healthcare institutions to mitigate cybersecurity threats to EHRs in the public health sector in South Africa. The integrated systems theory (IST) which amalgamated five different theories relating to information security management was used as a theoretical foundation in this study. In achieving this purpose, the literature review was selected as the research design best suited to answer the question presented in this research study. An expert review was used to refine the framework outcome using interviews and questionnaires. The contribution that will be made by this study will be in a form of a conceptual framework that will be used to mitigate cybersecurity threats concerning EHRs in the public health sector. The healthcare contingency management framework (HCMF) can be adopted by either the National Health Department or Provincial Health Department to be used by healthcare facilities as a guide in reviewing their support function, process management, governance management, and their contingency management. Similar future studies need to be conducted on large scale such as in the whole public sector with the focus on the health sector.,Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2021
Critical Success Factors for Enhanced Information Systems Capabilities in Water Billing Processes: A Case Study of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
(University of Fort Hare, 2019) Naki, Avuyile; Boucher, Duane
Water is a nation's most precious resource as humans depend upon it for their lives and livelihoods. Water resources, therefore, require efficient and strategic management by those entities tasked with such a responsibility. Municipalities manage the water distribution to local citizens, but experience challenges due to the numerous tasks involved in water management. A major challenge that municipalities face is inefficiencies in water management business processes due to immature information system capabilities. Many studies focus on the infrastructure-related challenges such as ageing pipes, but little emphasis is placed on the information system-based challenges in water management and their relationship to the local water consumer. Therefore, the focus of this research investigation was on the water billing process activities and the information systems involved in these activities. The study collected primary data by conducting a focus group comprising seven respondents working in water billing-related processes and then conducted semi-structured interviews with two managers at the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). The Nvivo software tool was used to organise the collected data. Finally, the collected data was analysed using the principles of thematic analysis. Firstly, the primary evidence indicates that the water billing information systems that are used at BCMM are unintegrated. Secondly, that there are numerous manual processes in the water billing-related processes, which lead to mistakes in the capturing of consumer data. Thirdly, the analysis confirms that BCMM is faced with water management challenges. Fourthly, the analysis revealed that there is inadequate communication between various water billing information systems that are used, which results in delays in data capturing, errors and outdated information. The findings conclude that BCMM has immature water billing information system capabilities and that there are problems related to water processes. The research investigation derived several critical success factors (CSFs) for BCMM to action to ensure that their water billing information systems are enhanced. The CSFs were reviewed by the two managers used for the study in order to ascertain their relevance to the context and were considered relevant by the managers. Therefore, the recommendation is that BCMM, and other municipalities with similar contexts, should action the proposed CSFs to enhance their water billing-related information systems capabilities.
Critical success factors for the adoption and continued use of social media in teaching and learning among lecturers at a historically Black university in South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2016) Murire, Obrain
The throughput rate at South African universities has been severely impacted by the massification of teaching and learning. Emerging technologies, such as social media, have been identified as having the ability to increase student - lecturer interaction, collaboration and communication in the classroom as learners are more open to modem technologies and more eager to engage with them. Despite the benefits that social media offer in teaching and learning, few lecturers choose to make use of these tools. The purpose of the study was to provide critical success factors that will increase the adoption of social media use in teaching and learning at historically Black universities in the Eastern Cape. The unified theory of use and acceptance of technology and substitution, augmentation, modification and redefinition model were used as a theoretical foundation in this study. A quantitative survey tool was used to collect the data at one HBU in the Eastern Cape.

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