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Determinants of high-performance computing systems adoption and continued use amongst university staff and students in historically disadvantaged institutions
(University of Fort Hare, 2024-05) Zembe, Sandisiwe; Cilliers, L; Mahembe, Bright
The demand for High-performance computing (HPC) systems is increasing in research. This is because it can perform large and complex simulations at a faster speed. Cluster-based high-performance computing connects several host computers via high-performance Local Area Networks (LANs), utilizing parallel computing technology. HPC clusters can finish a task by allocating smaller tasks to various compute nodes. HPC is very convenient since they can complete tasks quicker than usual computers. The use of HPC is relatively low, this is because they are expensive to acquire and there isn’t sufficient training on how to use them. The purpose of this study is to investigate the determinants of high-performance computing systems adoption and continued use by staff and students in Historically Disadvantaged Institutions. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) was used as the theoretical foundation of this study. The positivism paradigm was used as a metatheory guiding the study as the quantitative design was used to test the hypotheses formulated in the study. The research sample comprised of 306 users of High-Performance Computing systems selected through the convenience sampling. Employing a quantitative approach, the study used a cross-sectional survey research design to collect and analyse data to achieve the study's objectives. The study findings revealed a significant relationship between computer self-efficacy and attitude towards high-performance computing systems. Similarly, there was a significant relationship between attitude toward high-performance computing systems and the intention to use high-performance computing systems. The intention to use high-performance computing systems and social influence were both found to positively affect the actual use of high-performance computing systems. However, there was an insignificant relationship between perceived ease of use, as well as perceived usefulness, and attitude towards high-performance computing system, suggesting that these two factors did not influence the adoption of the technology. In summary, this research significantly enhances comprehension of the challenges associated with the adoption and continued use of High-Performance Computing Systems across five South African Historically Disadvantaged Institutions. It underscores the importance of addressing adoption and user education, to optimize the use of High-Performance Computing Systems in Higher Education. These actions are essential for fostering the effective utilisation of High- Performance Computing Systems and unlocking their potential benefits for economic growth and educational advancements in South Africa.
The impact of fuel price on supply chain costs in South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2024) Zanekile, Masonwabe Victor; Hompashe, D; Fobosi, SC
Fuel price volatility significantly affects supply chain costs, impacting the competitiveness and sustainability of business in South Africa. This study examined the impact of fuel prices on supply chain costs in South Africa, exploring the effects on transportation, inventory and logistics management. The study used a time series data from 1990 to 2022 and considered a direct correlation between fuel price fluctuations and their subsequent impact on supply chain costs. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model (ARDL) was used to determine long term relationship between the variables. The Error Correlation Model (ECM) was also used in the study to determine the short-term relationship between the variables. The findings revealed that there is a strong positive long run correlation between fuel price and supply chain costs in South Africa by 0.462, and it is statistically significant at 1% level by observing the probability (P<0.0007) in the ARDL Long Run Table. This implies that for every 1% increase in fuel price will result in an increment of 0.462 in the total cost of supply chain. The findings indicate that fuel price increases significantly and contribute to rising supply chain costs, with disproportionate effects on companies and consumers. The study suggested based on the findings that companies in South Africa should familiarise themselves with route optimisation. Rising fuel costs can incentivise logistics companies to optimise their delivery routes to minimise fuel consumption. This could entail utilising sophisticated routing software to discover the most fuel-efficient routes or consolidating shipments to reduce the number of trips. In addition, companies have to investment in fuel-efficient vehicles: High and volatile gas prices can motivate logistics companies to invest in more fuel-efficient vehicles or technologies, such as hybrid or electric trucks, to reduce their dependence on traditional gasoline or diesel fuel. The study is limited to specific variables affecting the relationship between fuel price and supply chain costs in South Africa but acknowledges that other factors may also play a role. Additionally, events outside the research period may not be considered. This research contributes to understanding the implications of fuel price fluctuations on supply chain costs in South Africa, informing policymakers and industry stakeholders.
Government Gazette of the RSA 1980
(Republic of S.A, 1980-06-06) Republic of South Africa
The collection contains digitized microfiche copies of Government Gazette publications issued during 1980. The record provide official government notices, regulations and public announcements of historical and administrative significance.
Government Gazette of the RSA 1981
(Republic of S.A, 1980-03-14) Republic of South Africa
The collection contains digitized microfiche copies of Government Gazette publications issued during 1980. The record provide official government notices, regulations and public announcements of historical and administrative significance.
Government Gazette of the RSA 1981
(Republic of S.A, 1981-04-10) Republic of South Africa
The collection contains digitized microfiche copies of Government Gazette publications issued during 1980. The record provide official government notices, regulations and public announcements of historical and administrative significance.