The effect of mergers and acquisitions : focus on employee job satisfaction of former employees of Smartcom in Vodacom SA
Date
2008-12
Authors
Rathogwa, Avhaathu Thelma
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University
Abstract
The general purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of the relationship
between organisational mergers and/or acquisitions and job satisfaction. Specifically, the
concept of job satisfaction was examined in relation to ex-Smartcom employees who were
moved to Vodacom after the acquisition of Smartcom.
Variables such as age, marital status, educational level, gender and job security were
examined for a possible significant relationship to employee job satisfaction. Management
involvement and intervention during the acquisition were also examined to establish
whether or not this also affects employee job satisfaction. It was hypothesised that
employees were dissatisfied as a result of the acquisition.
The researcher used a combination of both quantitative and qualitative methods of
collecting data. Through questionnaires, interviews and observation, the researcher
achieved what is called ‘triangulation’ in order to get a better understanding of the results.
The data was gathered and analysed effectively by using different methods of collecting
and measuring data. This was done to ensure that the study’s trustworthiness, validation
and reliability. The results are discussed in terms of the hypothesis set in the study. This is
done through a discussion of the conclusion drawn from the findings. Even though
employees are dissatisfied as a result of mergers and acquisitions, it was found that there
are other factors such as work environment, pay, recognition, responsibility, team work,
and security that can also lead to employee dissatisfaction.
It was therefore concluded that when an acquisition is made, management should not only
focus on the bottom-line, but also pay attention to the human factors that can lead to the
failure or success of the acquisition. Integration and intervention programmes can be used
as mechanisms for successful operations post mergers and acquisitions.
Description
Thesis (MPhil (Information Science))--Stellenbosch University, 2008.
Keywords
Job satisfaction, Mergers and acquisitions, Vodacom, Minnesota satisfaction survey, Employee motivation, Organisational change, Theses -- Information science, Dissertations -- Information science