Drivers of solar photovoltaic deployment in South African public universities: a Delphi study

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nutifafa Geh ◽  
Fidelis Emuze ◽  
Dillip Kumar Das
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Public Universities ◽  
High Energy ◽  
Public University ◽  
The Body ◽  
Relative Advantage ◽  
Extensive Literature ◽  
Solar Photovoltaic ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Photovoltaic Energy

PurposeSolar photovoltaic energy is the fastest growing renewable energy in South Africa, and deployment at public universities is critical in order to meet the high energy demand on campuses in a more sustainable manner. To promote and support deployment, it is necessary to know the factors that drive adoption of the technology. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify the factors which engender deployment of photovoltaic energy in public universities in South Africa.Design/methodology/approachThrough an extensive literature review, the factors which drive photovoltaic energy deployment were identified and a three round Delphi survey was conducted for panellists to rate the drivers. The data were analysed using SPSS Version 27, and the mean and inter-quartile range values were used to identify the significant drivers within the public university sector.FindingsThe findings suggested that the deployment of photovoltaic energy is engendered by the direct and indirect benefits, social influences and the relative advantage of photovoltaic energy usage. For instance, universities install photovoltaic energy because of the financial gains that are made through reduction of energy cost. The deployment is also motivated by the reduction of energy-related greenhouse gases, enhancement of university sustainability performance, and the contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals.Originality/valueA significant contribution to the body of knowledge regarding the drivers of photovoltaic energy deployment has been made in the paper from the perspective of a public university. The contribution fills the knowledge gap in South Africa by contributing valuable information to enable decision-makers to gain better understanding of the key issues that call for more attention in promoting and supporting photovoltaic energy deployment in the sector.

Performance management in public universities: overcoming bureaucracy

2018 ◽  
Vol 67 (4) ◽  
pp. 736-753 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nunzio Angiola ◽  
Piervito Bianchi ◽  
Letizia Damato
Keyword(s):  
Performance Management ◽  
Public Universities ◽  
Organizational Factors ◽  
Public University ◽  
Management Systems ◽  
Management Tools ◽  
Performance Levels ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Performance Management Systems ◽  
Adoption And Implementation

Purpose Considering a micro performance perspective, the purpose of this paper is to analyze whether and to what extent the adoption of better performance management systems could improve the performance levels of a public university. Design/methodology/approach With reference to a period of four years (2011-2014), the quality of performance management systems of 29 Italian universities (response rate: 48 percent) was examined and the possible effects on performance levels of these institutions were analyzed by means of statistical methodologies (multiple regression analysis). Outcome indicators were considered. Findings The findings indicate the need to go further “measurement,” and to take care of performance “management,” especially in complex organizations as universities, where academicians identify themselves more with their professions than with the organization and where technicians and administrative employees might look at the performance-based reform with “bureaucratic eyes.” A fruitful cooperation between the professional soul and the bureaucratic one is paramount. Originality/value Studies which analyze organizational factors that could affect the adoption and implementation of performance management systems are rare, and use in prevalence qualitative methods or refer to machine bureaucracies, not many to professional ones as public universities. Moreover, the performance management literature in a public university context deepens the topic of the selection of KPIs and the focus is mainly on macro performance or on management tools for gathering and analyzing performance measures.

Modeling bid/no bid decisions using fuzzy fault tree

2018 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
pp. 90-108 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohamed Marzouk ◽  
Emad Mohamed
Keyword(s):  
Fault Tree ◽  
The Body ◽  
Final Decision ◽  
Extensive Literature ◽  
Willingness To Participate ◽  
Tree Model ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Proposed Model ◽  
Multiple Experts ◽  
Two Stages

Purpose Decisions by construction contractors to bid (or not to bid) require the thorough assessment and evaluation of factors relevant to the decision, as well as the quantification of their combined impact, to produce successful bid/no-bid decisions. The purpose of this study is to present a fuzzy fault tree model to assist construction contractors to more efficiently bid for future projects. Design/methodology/Approach The proposed model consist of two stages: first, identification of the factors that affect bidding decision using a questionnaire survey after an extensive literature review, and second, usage of the identified factors to build a fuzzy fault tree model to simulate the bidding decision. Findings A list of 15 factors that affect bid/no-bid decisions was identified. Analysis of factors revealed that the highest-ranking factors were related to financial aspects of the project. A case study is presented to demonstrate the capabilities of the model, and a fuzzy important analysis is performed on the basic events to demonstrate the differences between three contractors’ bid/no-bid decisions. The results reveal that there is variation between the decisions of each contractor based on their willingness to participate. Besides, the influence of evaluation factors on the final decision for each contractor is different. Originality/value The study contributes to the body of knowledge on tendering and bidding practices. The proposed model incorporated the fuzzy set theory, which suits human subjectivity. The proposed methodology overcomes the limitations of previous models as it can, using the linear pool opinion principle, combine and weigh the evaluations of multiple experts. In addition, the model is convenient for situations where historical data are not available.

Strategic planning and benchmarking organizational routines of universities in the Western Balkans

2014 ◽  
Vol 26 (3) ◽  
pp. 261-274 ◽  
Author(s):  
Antigoni Papadimitriou
Keyword(s):  
Strategic Planning ◽  
Public Universities ◽  
Private Universities ◽  
The Body ◽  
Organizational Routines ◽  
Western Balkans ◽  
Public And Private ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Public ◽  
National Quality

Purpose – There is currently limited knowledge of the strategic organizational routines such as strategic planning and benchmarking of universities in the Western Balkans (WB). Thus the purpose of this paper is to map perceptions and concerns of institutional leadership about these routines within the public and private universities in the region. Design/methodology/approach – An online survey targeting all public and private universities in the WB was sent to the rector's and president's office. The survey data were analyzed with descriptive statistical methods, calculating frequencies, and means. Findings – Data revealed that the majority of both public and private universities have implemented strategic planning. Analysis of strategic planning between private and public universities indicated that averages scores were slightly higher in the private rather than the public universities. Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis was among the statements that received higher scores (perceptions about implementation) from both types of universities. The relatively low scores from both types of institutions concerning perceived implementation and importance of benchmarking might imply that WB universities achieve their goals in a less competitive environment. Originality/value – The significance of the paper lies in the fact that no existing studies have investigated strategic planning and benchmarking in the WB universities. To be able to build a potential baseline for further research, including the possibility for more comparative research both within and beyond the region, the selection of routines was taken from the US Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award for Performance Excellence in Education. This study contributes to the body of research for literature about strategic organizational routines and strategy-as-practice.

A comparative analysis of the provision of student housing safety measures

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Fredrick Simpeh ◽  
Mariam Akinlolu
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Sprinkler System ◽  
Student Housing ◽  
Facility Management ◽  
The Body ◽  
Security Measures ◽  
Traffic Light ◽  
Content Type

Purpose Security, safety, environment and health have become an integral part of facility management (FM). Therefore, FM departments within organisations are required to put measures in place to safeguard facility users. This paper thus aims to investigate and compare the safety and security measures that are provided in the student housing of two universities in South Africa. Design/methodology/approach A mixed method approach was adopted; interview was used to collect qualitative data, whereas a questionnaire was used as an instrument to collect quantitative data. Content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data, whereas both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the quantitative data. Findings It became evident that university B had a better provision of safety and security measures in the student housing than university A. The study also found that both universities had some lapses in the safety and security measures provided in the student housing. Measures that were lacking in both universities were weapon detector, closed-circuit television (CCTV), water sprinkler system, burglar bars on the doors, lift for disabled students, disabled toilet facility, traffic light, tags for vehicles, first aid box, accident book and medically trained personnel. Research limitations/implications Data were collected from only two universities, making it difficult to generalise the findings of the research. For a broader perspective, a study that expands the number of participating universities is recommended. Practical implications The facility management and safety department in the universities can use the recommendations to improve on the safety and security measures required in the student housing. Moreover, the recommendations can contribute to the development of policy frameworks for student housing safety. Originality/value There is a paucity of studies on student housing safety/security worldwide, and South Africa in particular. With this study, the authors contribute to the body of knowledge in this area of research.

Adoption of students' loan schemes: the contingent role of financial knowledge

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Gloria Ocran ◽  
Livingstone Divine Caesar
Keyword(s):  
Critical Role ◽  
Financial Education ◽  
The Body ◽  
Financial Knowledge ◽  
Relative Advantage ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Four Dimensions ◽  
Behavioural Factors

PurposeDespite the introduction of structural reforms to the students' loan scheme (SLS) in Ghana's higher education sector, patronage is still low. This paper aims to examine the complexity of technological and behavioural factors underpinning the low rate of students' loan adoption in Ghana. It further contributes to the body of knowledge by exploring the moderating role of financial knowledge in the hypothesized relationships.Design/methodology/approachUsing a positivistic research approach, a sample of 700 tertiary students with experience in accessing SLSs were surveyed. An 88% response rate was realized and the data analysed using descriptive statistics, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis.FindingsFour dimensions of technological factors (relative advantage, trialability, observability and compatibility) and two of behavioural factors (attitude and control behaviour) were positively related to adoption of the SLS. Financial knowledge only moderated the relationship between compatibility, attitude, behavioural control and students' loan adoption.Practical implicationsFinancial knowledge plays a critical role in influencing the investment decisions of people. Management of SLSs needs to offer financial education to targeted parents/students to clear misconceptions. It is also imperative that all other technical challenges are addressed to enhance adoption rates for the SLS. Review of guarantor requirements is needed also.Originality/valueThis paper introduces financial knowledge as a moderating variable to investigate the hypothesized relationships. It offers a developing country insight into how technological/behavioural factors and financial knowledge might be impacting adoption of SLSs.

Developing a theoretical framework for intelligent contract acceptance

2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (3) ◽  
pp. 421-445 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alan J. McNamara ◽  
Samad M.E. Sepasgozar
Keyword(s):  
Technology Acceptance ◽  
Technology Acceptance Model ◽  
Industry 4.0 ◽  
Theoretical Framework ◽  
The Body ◽  
Extensive Literature ◽  
Contributing Factors ◽  
Model Framework ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Acceptance Model

Purpose This paper aims to develop a novel theoretical technology acceptance model, namely, for predicting acceptance of the trending technology of intelligent contracts (iContracts) in construction, which aims to integrate the data from emerging cyber-physical systems being introduced to the sector through the industry 4.0 revolution. This model includes main dimensions and critical contributing factors to assess the readiness for the iContract concept within the construction contract environment. Design/methodology/approach Through an extensive literature review, the structure of a unique theoretical technology acceptance model for iContract implementation, within construction, was developed iContract acceptance model (iCAM). Relevant themes were assessed through the lens of the technology acceptance model framework and the four accepted dimensions of the technology readiness index (TRI) concept. The main components of the model were examined with selected practitioners, with relevant experience and understanding of the iContract concept, with thematic mapping of the discussions correlated back to 12 specific iContract contributing constructs of the four adapted TRI dimensions. Findings The paper contributes to the body of knowledge by proposing a novel iCAM for a trending technology based on the specific requirements of iContract adoption. The interviews show that while the desire to digitalise the contractual environment exists, the readiness of the sector for such a disruptive change is unknown. Practical implications The findings and proposed conceptual iCAM offers a lens for the further development of the iContract concept by assisting practitioners to forecast digital readiness of the contract process in construction. Originality/value This study offers a unique and theoretical framework, in an embryonic field, for predicting the success of iContract implementation within construction organisations through the digital, industry 4.0 and revolution.

An analytic network process (ANP) model to examine LEED-certified buildings’ operational performance

2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (4) ◽  
pp. 366-376 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gulbin Ozcan Deniz
Keyword(s):  
Life Cycle ◽  
Analytic Network Process ◽  
Economic Life ◽  
The Body ◽  
Assessment Model ◽  
Operational Performance ◽  
Building Performance ◽  
Extensive Literature ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Network Process

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to create and present a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design New Construction (LEED NC) building performance assessment model that will identify and prioritize external parameters affecting a LEED-certified building’s operational performance. Design/methodology/approach The uncertainty associated with external parameters affecting a LEED-certified building’s operational performance is examined through the use of analytic network process (ANP). An ANP model is created based on the extensive literature research and experiences of professionals in the green building industry. Eight case studies are analyzed, and data collected through interviews with experts are utilized in prioritizing external parameters affecting buildings’ operational performance. Findings The findings show that the most important external parameters affecting a LEED-certified building’s operational performance are lack of enhanced commissioning, lack of life cycle assessment/life cycle costing analysis, lack of energy modeling, and lack of knowledge in green technology. The results demonstrate that both asset value and profit, as well as the economic life of the facility, are mostly affected by the energy efficiency of the building, and consequently LEED NC energy and atmosphere category. Originality/value This research contributes to the body of knowledge on green architecture by defining and prioritizing external parameters and their relationships to operational building performance in LEED NC projects. The proposed model can be used by construction managers and facility managers to operate LEED-certified buildings better and reduce environmental impacts throughout the functional life cycle of the building.

Outsiders within: non-conformity among four contemporary black female managers in South Africa

2014 ◽  
Vol 29 (3) ◽  
pp. 148-170 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hugo Canham
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Black Women ◽  
Cultural Values ◽  
Social Life ◽  
Black Female ◽  
The Body ◽  
Close Reading ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Female Managers ◽  
Women In The Workplace

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to foreground non-conformity in organisational life as it relates to black female managers. My intervention here is to problematise organisational theory in relation to its limited ability to engage with affect and to point to a more generative framework. Through centering the body, the author also seeks to offer a counter narrative to the field of Positive Organisation Scholarship and its drive to primarily engage with happy feelings and harmony. Design/methodology/approach – The author gives a close reading of four black women's interview-based narratives to engage with the ways in which they refuse to conform to organisational scripts of happiness. The author makes a case for using both critical discourse-based and affective readings of everyday experience which social science readings cannot readily account for. Findings – Non-conformity has a number of local effects including negotiating the present from a position of alternative histories of struggle and cultural values, and holding different and conflicting realities and subject positions. Moreover, a reading of these women's accounts suggests that affect is both personal and social and can manifest in multiple, embodied, transformative, and potentially destructive ways. The author comes to new ways of understanding organisations and resistance when the author uses affect as an investigative lens. Research limitations/implications – By virtue of the close reading necessitated by the nature of the study, the sample of this research is small. While the intention is not generality, the findings of the research have to be understood in context and applied within different settings with caution. The implications of this research are that there remains an urgent need for critical-orientated research which centers affect in order to counter the growing positive psychologies which relegate asymmetries to the margins. Social implications – In South Africa where black women constitute the numerical majority, there is an urgent need to understand and reverse their status as a minority in management and social life. This research goes some way in explicating this process. Originality/value – While there is well-developed body of feminist research which seeks to study black women in South Africa, there is a dearth of research into black women in the workplace. This paper therefore presents an original look at black female managers by applying international theoretical tools to a context that is under theorised. This research presents new methodological and theoretical tools and analysis to the South African workplace.

An integrated adoption model for Islamic credit card: PLS-SEM based approach

2018 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
pp. 308-335 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dariyoush Jamshidi ◽  
Nazimah Hussin
Keyword(s):  
Conceptual Model ◽  
Credit Card ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Resistance To Change ◽  
The Body ◽  
Relative Advantage ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Study Results ◽  
Usage Behavior

PurposeOne challenge when launching new banking services is to overcome resistance to change so as to accelerate market acceptance. This is the case of Islamic credit card (ICC). In response, this study aims to develop a conceptual framework that combines the innovation diffusion theory (IDT) and the theory of reasoned action (TRA) with religious obligation and customer awareness to explain behavior intention and usage behavior of ICC. Design/methodology/approachTo test the conceptual model, the data are collected from 649 bank customers in Malaysia, and the structural equation modeling technique is used to test the forecasting model. FindingsThe study results support some relationships of IDT and TRA, such as relative advantage, compatibility, trialability, observability, attitude and also the customer awareness as a stronger predictor of intention of ICC. Originality/valueTo the author’s knowledge, there have not been any attempt to develop a conceptual model for identifying the factors that influence the adoption of ICC by integrating IDT and TRA and other added measures. Therefore, this study adds to the body of knowledge regarding ICC adoption studies by extending the IDT in this domain and integrating it with TRA as two well-established models in the area of acceptance and usage behavior studies.

Leadership styles, job satisfaction and organizational commitment among academic staff in public universities

2020 ◽  
Vol 39 (2) ◽  
pp. 253-268 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rogers Mwesigwa ◽  
Immaculate Tusiime ◽  
Bob Ssekiziyivu
Keyword(s):  
Job Satisfaction ◽  
Organizational Commitment ◽  
Leadership Styles ◽  
Public Universities ◽  
Academic Staff ◽  
Methodological Approach ◽  
The Body ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Relationship

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between leadership styles and Organizational commitment among academic staff in Ugandan Public Universities, mediated by Job Satisfaction.Design/methodology/approachThe study was cross-sectional, quantitative, and used correlation and regression to test the hypothesis. A sample of 353 academic staff was drawn from five public universities in Uganda, of which a response rate of 66 percent was obtained.FindingsOrganizational commitment among academic staff in public universities in Uganda depends on the age of the academic staff, length of service, position level, leadership styles employed, and job satisfaction. Findings further show that job satisfaction partially mediates the relationship between leadership styles and organizational commitment.Research limitations/implicationsOnly a single research methodological approach was employed; thus, future research through interviews could be undertaken to triangulate.Practical implicationsIn order to boost the organizational commitment among academic staff in Ugandan Public Universities, managers should always endeavor to employ a blend of leadership styles that leads to job satisfaction and can add value to the employee-employer relationship.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the body of knowledge by finding further support on the relationship between leadership styles and organizational commitment among academic staff in Ugandan public universities. It further demonstrates that job satisfaction partially transmits the effect of leadership styles on organizational commitment in public universities in Uganda.

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