Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences

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13 Ways to turn people on
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch Business School, 2010) Swart, Marinda; Louw, Johan
2050 Scenarios for long-haul tourism in the evolving global climate change regime
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2012-12) Vorster, Shaun; Ungerer, Marius; Volschenk, Jako
Tourism and its “midwife”, aviation, are transnational sectors exposed to global uncertainties. This scenario-building exercise considers a specific subset of these uncertainties, namely the impact of the evolving global climate change regime on long-haul tourism (LHT), with a 2050 horizon. The basic problematique is that unconstrained growth in aviation emissions will not be compatible with 2050 climate stabilisation goals, and that the stringency and timing of public policy interventions could have far-reaching impacts—either on the market for future growth of LHT, or the natural ecosystem on which tourism depends. Following an intuitive-logic approach to scenario-building, three meta-level scenarios that can be regarded as “possible” futures for the evolution of LHT are described. Two of these, i.e., the “grim reaper” and the “fallen angel” scenarios, are undesirable. The “green lantern” scenario represents the desired future. Long-haul tourist destinations should heed the early warning signals identified in the scenario narratives, and contribute towards realising the desired future. They should further guard against being passive victims if the feared scenarios materialise, by adapting, repositioning early upon reading the signposts, hedging against risks, and seizing new opportunities.
3 USB students conquer mighty USA
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch Business School, 2007-02) Matthee, Amanda; Swart, Clayton
After six years of taking part in the National Black MBA Association’s Case Competition in the USA, USB brings the honours home. AMANDA MATTHEE and CLAYTON SWART tell the story.
35 years of socially responsible investing (SRI) research : general trends over time
(AOSIS, 2012) Viviers, S.; Eccles, N. S.
This article describes 35 years of academic research into investment practices that in some way integrate a consideration of environmental, social and corporate governance issues. A review of 190 academic papers was undertaken to identify trends in five domains, namely ‘Primary Name’, ‘Research Themes’, ‘Ethical Foundations’, ‘Research Approach’ and ‘SRI Strategies’. The evidence reveals that more than half the researchers refer to such investment practices as Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) and for this reason the name is used in this review as a generic term for the genre. A myriad of other names were also identified. In terms of research themes, one particularly dominant theme was that of financial performance, which was often discussed in relation to fiduciary responsibility and legal aspects. Although the primary ethical foundation was not always directly observable, the majority of papers implied utilitarianism or ‘the greatest good for the greatest number’. Increased mention of ethical egoism (self-interest) is observed in later periods. An equal split between qualitative and quantitative research methodologies was noted, with a qualitative approach being more favoured in recent years. Three SRI strategies have dominated academic discussions over the past 35 years, namely negative screening, positive screening and shareholder activism. Gaps in the literature have been identified and suggestions for future research made.
50 Jaar van USB se bestaan
(2013-10) Matthee, Amanda
As ’n voorsmakie van ’n jaar vol herinneringe in 2014, wanneer die USB sy 50ste bestaansjaar herdenk, kyk ons terug na enkele foto’s van die afgelope 50 jaar – van die eerste MBA-groep tot hoe die USB nou lyk
Aanpassing van grootte-mengsels tydens voorraadtoewysing in 'n kettingwinkel
(LitNet, 2014-12) Thom, Elmien; Visagie, Stephan; Matthews, Jason
Die toewysing van voorraad aan winkels is een van die belangrike prosesse in die bestuur van ’n kettingwinkel. In die klerebedryf behels toewysingsbesluite onder andere die bepaling van hoeveelhede van elke grootte (byvoorbeeld klein, medium en groot) wat aan elke winkel gestuur moet word. ’n Gevallestudie van hierdie probleem in Pep Stores Bpk. (PEP), een van die vernaamste kleinhandelaars in Suid-Afrika, word in hierdie artikel beskou. In PEP word produkte by fabrieke bestel maande voordat dit in die takke beskikbaar is. Vanaf die fabrieke word die produkte na hul distribusiesentra verskeep, van waar dit per pad na die onderskeie takke versprei word. Onderliggend aan die verspreidingsnetwerk is ’n beplanningsproses en ’n toewysingsproses. Tydens die beplanningsproses word daar voorlopige toewysingsbesluite geneem. Tydens die toewysingsproses, wanneer daar meer onlangse verkoopsdata beskikbaar is, word die aanvanklike beplanning aangepas en word daar finaal besluit hoeveel van elke produk en grootte aan elke tak gestuur sal word. In hierdie artikel word modelle ontwikkel wat gebruik kan word wanneer hierdie finale toewysingsbesluite geneem word. Die doelwit van die modelle poog om voorraad só toe te wys dat geen winkel te min of te veel voorraad van enige grootte ontvang nie. Vier modelle word aangebied waarin die verwagte voorraad-tekorte en -surplusse by die takke geminimeer word. Twee van die modelle is doelwitprogrammeringsmodelle. Die eerste doelwitprogrammeringsmodel word nie aanbeveel nie, aangesien die tweede model beter resultate lewer in ’n korter oplossingstyd. Die tweede doelwitprogrammeringsmodel lewer goeie resultate, maar die oplossingstyd is in party gevalle te lank. Daarom is twee verslappings van hierdie model ontwikkel met die oog op die vermindering van oplossingstyd. Hierdie twee modelle lewer bevredigende oplossingstye en toon ’n gemiddelde verbetering van tot 27% op PEP se huidige oplossing volgens die verskillende maatstawwe.
Accountability in the context of cooperative governance and local economic development (LED) in South African local government
(Megatrend University, 2021) Kamara, Richard Douglas
Provided the tensions and challenges found in different types of governance systems for developing clear objectives, effective policy implementation strategies, as well as monitoring and reporting mechanisms aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability of initiatives, this paper seeks to contribute to both theoretical and practical debates surrounding cooperative governance and LED. Whilst better policy outcomes that fit with local and differentiated needs among stakeholders may be one of the drivers for moving towards cooperative governance, there is a normative question of accountability. Does the common feature of flexible and adaptable arrangements in cooperative governance create accountability deficit, specifically promoting laissez-faire approach commonly associated with the implementation among role-players? This paper considers this question and the extent to which accountability may be ensured. To address these concerns data were collected from six municipalities in Western Cape, South Africa. A qualitative research design paradigm based on Interpretivists/Constructivists philosophy was employed. Data were collected through three data collection instruments, namely, document review, interviews and focus group discussions. This paper argues that employing Key Performance Indicators as commonly used in the public service to promote accountability is difficult to enforce specifically in collaborative endeavours where participatory is voluntary. The paper recommends some accountability promotion enhancers. This will assist in improving the understanding of the context that may inhibit or enable stakeholders in taking full advantage of collaborative-led developmental interventions to further peoples’ lives and to enhance their opportunities to partake in matters of development in their municipalities.
Accountancy students’ and lecturers’ perceptions of the effect of open-book assessments on writing examinations
(HESA, 2020) Kruger, Stephan J.
Open-book assessment (OBA) can contribute to the development of competency in handling large amounts of information in the knowledge economy. This is one of the reasons why the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) implemented OBA for its Initial Test of Competence. This empirical study investigated final year accountancy students’ and lecturers’ perceptions of the effect on writing examinations after their method of assessment changed from a closed-book (CBA) to an open-book assessment format. Students and lecturers perceived a change in writing behaviour, reduced anxiety, and improved performance. On some aspects the level of agreement between students and lecturers differed significantly. There is also evidence that African students perceived OBA to be less beneficial compared to the perceptions of white students. For subjects for which substantial texts were available, students perceived the least change happened for Auditing while lecturers perceived the least change for Financial Accounting. Both students and lecturers perceived the most change happened for Taxation. It is important that lecturers at departments of accountancy take cognisance of these perception gaps and to adjust their teaching to enable their students to utilise their texts as an additional resource optimally. This study is also of value to the regulatory bodies to evaluate their assessment practises
Accounting students' perceptions : internal control theory moves outside the classroom and online
(HESA, 2019) Sexton, N. D.
Many have argued that faculty should transform the way accounting programmes are presented to undergraduate students. Changes in student expectations, professional qualifications and employer demands have driven innovative experiential learning interventions. Students want to learn collaboratively, inside and outside of the classroom, they want to use information technology and have fun. In response, this article reports on an auditing assignment where students were required to identify control weaknesses in everyday life, record it and report back using Facebook. A Facebook group was created where students posted photos or videos of the control weakness they identified. Other students could “like,” comment and share posts. This was the first assignment of this nature. This research presents the accounting students’ perceptions of the assignment as a whole, the pervasive skills applied and the use of Facebook. These were generally positive and should encourage educators to keep integrating technology and real life into learning.
The accounting treatment of credit card rewards programmes : a South African perspective (part I)
(AOSIS, 2017-04) Brink, Sophia M.
Credit card rewards programmes are a common phenomenon in the South African market. On 1 July 2007 the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) issued IFRIC 13 Customer Loyalty Programmes to give specific guidance to suppliers on the accounting treatment of customer loyalty programme transactions. Although credit card rewards programmes are specifically included in the scope of this Interpretation, in practice not all credit card rewards programmes currently account for award credits under the revenue deferral model (IFRIC 13). During May 2014 the IASB and the United States Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) published IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers intended to replace six existing Standards and Interpretations, including IFRIC 13. Currently there is uncertainty whether or not a credit card rewards programme transaction falls within the scope of IFRS 15. Despite concerns raised the Boards decided against providing any additional guidance to credit card rewards programmes and indicated that they leave it up to management.
The accounting treatment of credit card rewards programmes : a South African perspective (part II)
(AOSIS, 2017-06) Brink, Sophia M.
Most credit card issuers offer their card holders participation in a customer loyalty programme. On 1 July 2007 the IASB issued IFRIC 13 Customer Loyalty Programmes to give specific guidance to suppliers on the accounting treatment of customer loyalty programme transactions. Despite the fact that credit card rewards programmes are specifically included in the scope of this Interpretation, in practice not all credit card rewards programmes currently account for award credits under the revenue deferral model (IFRIC 13). These divergent practices make one question the relevance of the current guidance provided in IFRIC 13 to credit card rewards programmes; otherwise what is the reason behind credit card rewards programmes accounting for these transactions differently? During May 2014 the IASB and the United States Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB), published IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers intended to replace six existing Standards and Interpretations, including IFRIC 13. The aim of IFRS 15 is to streamline accounting for revenue across all industries and to correct inconsistencies in existing Standards and practices. Credit card rewards programme respondents raised many queries and uncertainties based on the proposed model but despite these concerns the Boards decided against providing any additional guidance to credit card rewards programmes. They indicated that they leave it up to management’s judgement to determine how to account for these transactions (in effect not achieving the aim of streamlining accounting for revenue across all industries). The main objective of the research reported in this article is to determine whether or not credit card rewards programmes should have been included in the scope of IFRIC 13 and consequently whether or not credit card rewards programmes should be included in the scope of IFRS 15. It was found that the differences between a credit card rewards programme and a typical customer loyalty programme prove that a credit card rewards programme transaction should be treated differently for accounting purposes and that these transactions should fall outside the scope of IFRIC 13 and IFRS 15.
The accounting treatment of credit card rewards programmes : a South African perspective (part III)
(AOSIS, 2017-10) Brink, Sophia M.
Most credit card issuers offer their cardholders participation in a customer loyalty programme. Currently all credit card rewards programmes fall within the scope of IFRIC 13. For annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2017 IFRIC 13 will be withdrawn and will be replaced by the new revenue Standard, IFRS 15. In the process of compiling the new revenue model, credit card rewards programmes raised various concerns and uncertainties regarding the application of IFRS 15 to credit card rewards programme transactions. Despite concerns raised, the IASB and FASB decided against providing any additional guidance to credit card rewards programmes and indicated that they leave it up to management’s judgement to determine how to account for these transactions. Although the effective date of the new revenue Standard is 1 January 2017, in view of the nature of a credit card rewards programme transaction it would be prudent for credit card rewards programmes to start collecting data immediately for the retrospective application. Given the time limit, the unanswered uncertainties and problem areas identified together with the minimal specific guidance to credit card rewards programmes, the main objective of the research reported in this article was to determine how to account for credit card rewards programme transactions, within the scope of IFRS 15 through the formulation of specific guidelines, and specifically to address the uncertainties raised by credit card rewards programme respondents. The study was also aimed at assisting credit card rewards programmes in converting from IFRIC 13 to IFRS 15 by highlighting the differences between the requirements contained in IFRIC 13 and IFRS 15.
The accounting treatment of single-company client loyalty programme transactions
(AOSIS, 2013-10) Brink, Sophia M.
Client loyalty programmes have been prevalent in South Africa since the 1980s, but the popularity of these programmes has increased drastically over the past few years, with more than 100 suppliers in South Africa currently making use of them. On 1 July 2007 the IASB issued IFRIC 13 to give specific guidance to suppliers on the accounting treatment of client loyalty programme transactions. The IASB is currently compiling a new revenue standard. This single new revenue standard will replace six existing standards or interpretations, including IFRIC 13. A critical analysis of IFRIC 13 will assist the development of this new revenue standard. The main objective of the research was therefore to determine whether the guidance in IFRIC 13 regarding the accounting treatment of a single-company client loyalty programme transaction is consistent with other accounting standards and recent developments. The accounting treatment of each component of a client loyalty programme transaction with a change in estimate was considered. It was found that inconsistencies exist in the initial measurement of the fair value and how a change in accounting estimate is recognised.
Adapting the systems model of performance management to major changes in the external and internal organisational environments
(AOSIS, 2001) Spangenberg, H. H.; Theron, C. C.
In essence, this article discusses ways to ensure continued relevance of Performance Management in fast-changing environmental and organisational realities. It starts with the rationale for moving from performance appraisal to Performance Management. In view of some persisting problems with regard to Performance Management, a systems approach to help alleviate these problems is discussed. The current status of Performance Management is reviewed, based on international surveys and a recent report on the way Performance Management best-practice organisations utilise the system. In view of this information, the Systems Model of Performance Management is adapted. The paper is concluded with a discussion and recommendations for future research.
Added sugar, macro- and micronutrient intakes and anthropometry of children in a developing world context
(Public Library of Science, 2015) Maunder, Eleni M. W.; Nel, Johanna H.; Steyn, Nelia P.; Kruger, H. Salome; Labadarios, Demetre
Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between added sugar and dietary diversity, micronutrient intakes and anthropometric status in a nationally representative study of children, 1–8.9 years of age in South Africa. Methods: Secondary analysis of a national survey of children (weighted n = 2,200; non weighted n = 2818) was undertaken. Validated 24-hour recalls of children were collected from mothers/ caregivers and stratified into quartiles of percentage energy from added sugar (% EAS). A dietary diversity score (DDS) using 9 food groups, a food variety score (FVS) of individual food items, and a mean adequacy ratio (MAR) based on 11 micronutrients were calculated. The prevalence of stunting and overweight/obesity was also determined. Results: Added sugar intake varied from 7.5–10.3%of energy intake for rural and urban areas, respectively. Mean added sugar intake ranged from 1.0% of energy intake in Quartile 1 (1– 3 years) (Q1) to 19.3% in Q4 (4–8 years). Main sources of added sugar were white sugar (60.1%), cool drinks (squash type) (10.4%) and carbonated cool drinks (6.0%). Added sugar intake, correlated positively with most micronutrient intakes, DDS, FVS, and MAR. Significant negative partial correlations, adjusted for energy intake, were found between added sugar intake and intakes of protein, fibre, thiamin, pantothenic acid, biotin, vitamin E, calcium (1–3 years), phosphorus, iron (4–8 years), magnesium and zinc. The prevalence of overweight/obesity was higher in children aged 4–8 years in Q4 of %EAS than in other quartiles [mean (95%CI) %prevalence overweight 23.0 (16.2–29.8)% in Q4 compared to 13.0 (8.7–17.3)% in Q1, p = 0.0063]. Conclusion: Although DDS, FVS, MAR and micronutrient intakes were positively correlated with added sugar intakes, overall negative associations between micronutrients and added sugar intakes, adjusted for dietary energy, indicate micronutrient dilution. Overweight/obesity was increased with higher added sugar intakes in the 4–8 year old children.
Addressing the challenge of strategic alignment faced by small and medium-sized entities during the selection of accounting software packages
(Clute Institute, 2016-12-27) Bishop, William Arthur
ENGLISH SUMMARY : Alignment between an entity’s strategic business objectives and its information systems (ISs) has recently received research attention. Currently, small and medium-sized entities (SMEs) still face the challenge of successfully aligning their strategic business objectives with their ISs. Various small generic accounting software packages are available for purchase by SMEs. These accounting packages all have functionalities that enable SMEs to keep proper accounting records. However, due to their generic nature, these accounting packages do not always have sufficient functionalities to drive the SMEs’ strategic business objectives, resulting in IS misalignment. Not selecting the correct accounting software package will result in the accounting software not addressing the strategic business needs of the SME. The purpose of this study is to review and discuss the challenges faced by SMEs when selecting generic accounting packages and to develop a mapping between strategic business objectives commonly found within SMEs and software package functionalities that SMEs can refer to during the selection and implementation of new accounting software packages. This is accomplished on a non-empirical basis through a review of pertinent literature. In order for a SME to select the correct accounting software package, it is important that it invest time and effort in considering the software functionalities provided by the software package and map it against its strategic business imperatives to prevent failure of the package.
Addressing the incremental risks associated with adopting Bring Your Own Device
(AOSIS, 2018) Weber, Lyle; Rudman, Riaan J.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) involves allowing employees to use their own mobile devices to access their organisations’ networks. Many organisations are embracing this trend as a means to cut information technology (IT) expenditure, enhance employee satisfaction, etc. However, these and other benefits come at a cost in the form of exposing an organisation to new risks. The aim of this research was to assist organisations to identify the incremental risks they could potentially encounter if they implement a BYOD programme and how they can reduce the risks directly related to BYOD to an acceptable level. An extensive literature review was performed to identify the risks which arise as a result of the adoption of a BYOD programme. COBIT 5 was identified as the most appropriate framework which could be used to develop possible safeguards to mitigate the incremental risks associated with a BYOD programme to an acceptable level. Safeguards were developed to address the risks.
Adoption factors and moderating effects of age and gender that influence the intention to use a non-directive reflective coaching chatbot
(SAGE Publications, 2022-06) Terblanche, Nicky; Kidd, Martin
Chatbots are increasingly applied in various contexts including helping professions, such as organizational and life coaching. Coaching facilitates individual wellness, behavioral change, and goal attainment in a reflective, non-directive manner, and is considered one of the fastest-growing professions. The use of knowledge imparting service chatbots have been studied; however, the application of chatbots in coaching has received scant research attention, raising the question about which factors and moderating effects play a role in the adoption of reflective, non-directive coaching chatbots. In this study, we applied a modified Unified Theory of the Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model to determine factors and moderating effects of age and gender that influence the adoption of a goal-attainment coaching chatbot. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used for the analysis of a cross-sectional UTAUT survey (n = 226). Performance expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions had significant roles as direct determinants of intent to use the coaching chatbot. Gender moderated performance expectancy and age showed a moderation tendency on effort expectancy. This study on non-directive, reflective chatbots in the organizational, and life coaching domains contributes to our understanding of how to design chatbots aimed at helping people find their own answers.
Adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder : why should we pay attention
(AOSIS Publishing, 2017) Schoeman, Renata; Albertyn, Ruth; De Klerk, Manie
Background: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder, with a chronic, costly and debilitating course if untreated. Limited access to diagnosis and treatment for adults with ADHD contributes to the cost of the disorder and the burden of disease. Aim: This study aims to identify the barriers to care for adults with ADHD. Methods: A qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews with 10 key opinion leaders in the field of adult ADHD in SA was conducted to obtain narratives regarding frustrations experienced when treating adults with ADHD and needs of patients regarding management of ADHD. Qualitative content analysis was completed using Atlas.ti (version 7). Results: Four key themes which emerged from the interviews were ‘lack of recognition of the disorder’, ‘lack of access to diagnosis’, ‘lack of access to treatment’ and ‘a life of perpetual failure’. Core to these themes are the lack of knowledge amongst health care professionals, funders, and society at large. Conclusion: Our findings expand on previous research regarding the need to increase the knowledge base on adult ADHD. A collaborative stakeholder approach is needed to provide research and training for improved diagnosis and treatment for adults with ADHD in the South African context.
Africa and project management hurdle
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, University of Stellenbosch Business School, 2012-12) Leuvennink, Jaco
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: South Africa is planning infrastructure projects worth thousands of billions of rand while it is widely accepted that Africa needs an infrastructure boom period of a decade or so to realise its emerging growth potential. Jaco Leuvennink looks at the role of project management in the outcomes of these development expectations.

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