scholarly journals THE USE OF MARKETING AS A TOOL FOR COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE AMONG POTENTIAL AND PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL CLUBS IN KZN, SOUTH AFRICA

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 319-335
Author(s):  
Joseph Kolawole Abon ◽  
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Competitive Advantage ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Professional Football ◽  
Mixed Method Research ◽  
Football Clubs ◽  
Kwazulu Natal ◽  
Marketing Activities ◽  
Marketing Actions

Football, as the most popular sport amongst other sports, is a household name in the world and South Africa particularly. This study examines the use of marketing in improving competitive advantage among potential and professional football clubs in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Several sponsorship opportunities that could serve as an impetus to disseminate various club projects are noted to be undermined. Arguably, some of the clubs’ activities are seasonal, and the applicability of marketing by football clubs in the KZN province could not be tactically emphasized. Therefore, the amount of marketing activities in clubs’ seasonal operations is unidentified which poses a challenge in achieving club objectives. This paper argues that it is of importance for the club marketing managers to consider features of each specific season and corporate marketing activities for the development of appropriate marketing actions that could serve as competitive advantages. This study adopts a mixed-method research approach, and a convenient sampling technique with responses from 80 questionnaires were retrieved. Five (5) coaches, 5 club owners, 5 managers, 5 supporters, and 5 players from five football clubs each located in KwaZulu-Natal province were interviewed to extract their understanding of the use of marketing to gain competitive advantage. Findings from the study state that using marketing correctly could improve the chances of potential professional football clubs’ popularity and increase financial gains. Most respondents emphasized that when clubs use a proper marketing strategy with appropriate use of marketing mix, it could position the clubs in the hearts of their supporters and public.

Strategies for Digitizing Records in Academic Higher Education in South Africa

2021 ◽  
pp. 65-78
Author(s):  
Lungile Precious Luthuli ◽  
Thobekile K. Buthelezi
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
South Africa ◽  
Information Value ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Portable Devices ◽  
Academic Institutions ◽  
Digital Platforms ◽  
Kwazulu Natal ◽  
The World ◽  
Analytical Review

Digitizing records ensures that the continuation of information value remains accessible and usable in all academic institutions. The study aimed to establish strategies being used for digitization of records in higher education institutions in South Africa. A case study design was found appropriate to investigate the strategies of digitizing records in KwaZulu-Natal. The study employed the qualitative research approach and collected data from the literature. Content analysis was used for data analysis. Furthermore, the study used an analytical review of empirical findings conversant of digitization of records in academic institutions as the strategy. Literature was reviewed across the world and narrowed down to KwaZulu-Natal intending to trace strategies being used by universities in KwaZulu-Natal. The findings revealed that most records are stored on the digital platforms or network servers that the university manages. Users across the world get access to these records and it gives the platform to download all records. The findings further revealed that records are stored and digitized individually from the portable devices. The study recommended that institutions should offer more training to the staff.

scholarly journals The perceived role of ward-based primary healthcare outreach teams in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

2017 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Landiwe S. Khuzwayo ◽  
Mosa Moshabela
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Primary Healthcare ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Limited Information ◽  
Chronic Patients ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Healthcare Facilities ◽  
User Perceptions ◽  
Kwazulu Natal

Background: The aim of ward-based outreach teams (WBOTs) is to improve access to primary healthcare (PHC) services including health promotion and disease prevention in South Africa. Limited information is available in South Africa on user perceptions of services provided by WBOTs in rural households.Aim: The study aimed to explore community awareness and perception of WBOTs, as well people’s motivation to engage and use WBOT services.Setting: The study was conducted between July and September 2015 in iLembe district, KwaZulu-Natal.Methods: This was exploratory-descriptive qualitative research. Purposive sampling technique was used in this study. A total of 16 key informant interviews and 4 focus group discussions were conducted. The voice recordings were transcribed in isiZulu and translated into English.Results: Four themes emerged from the data analysis, namely bringing services closer, organising services, expanding services and forming bridges. Respondents demonstrated insightful knowledge and understanding of services provided by WBOTs. They expressed an appreciation of the way WBOT services brought healthcare closer to people and serve to bridge the gap between the community and local healthcare facilities. Respondents identified unclear WBOT work schedules and the failure to carry medication other than vitamin A as the main challenges. However, WBOTs did deliver medication for controlled chronic patients in their households.Conclusion: The study suggests that WBOTs provide a commendable service, but need to expand their service package to further increase access to PHC services and cater for community health needs.

scholarly journals Towards a safer and more efficient neonatal transfer system in South Africa: A qualitative inquiry with advanced life support paramedics

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pradeep Ashokcoomar ◽  
Raisuyah Bhagwan
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Critically Ill ◽  
Transfer Process ◽  
Life Support ◽  
Advanced Life Support ◽  
Qualitative Inquiry ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Western Cape ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Kwazulu Natal

Introduction The inter-healthcare transfer of the critically ill neonate is a critical aspect of larger neonatal intensive care, as it influences the safe transport of neonates from the receiving to the referring hospital. It is crucial then that the transfer process be safe and efficient so as not to compromise the already fragile condition of the neonate. The aim of the study was to understand the challenges advanced life support (ALS) paramedics face during neonatal transfers and to understand how the process could be made safer and more efficient. The objectives related to understanding the transfer process, the challenges linked to the critically ill neonate and the difficulties associated with the ambulance vehicle and equipment. Methods Using a qualitative research approach we sought the views of ALS paramedics at the forefront of transfers nationally. In-depth interviews were held with eight paramedics in KwaZulu-Natal and four focus group discussions with ALS paramedics in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Free State and the Western Cape in South Africa. A total of 35 ALS paramedics were involved in these group discussions. Results The study uncovered several challenges that paramedics face related to poor organisational preparation for transfer of the critically ill neonate, and other crucial issues that compromise the transfer such as inadequate or defective equipment. Conclusion There is a need for greater scrutiny of the transfer process and a commitment from stakeholders to begin addressing the challenges confronting the safe transfer of critically ill neonates.

scholarly journals The Enhancement of Conference Tourism activities as a means to Bolstering Business Tourism in South Africa: A Case Study of Conferences within KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

2014 ◽  
Vol 6 (6) ◽  
pp. 432-437
Author(s):  
Wayne B. Tifflin
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Competitive Advantage ◽  
Business Activity ◽  
Significant Component ◽  
International Convention ◽  
Competitive Edge ◽  
Kwazulu Natal ◽  
The City

Business Tourism is considered an important aspect of a Destination’s Competitiveness. However having a competitive advantage does not guarantee success (Ritchie and Crouch, 2003). Destination success requires a well formulated competitiveness strategy which is effectively implemented (Seymour, 2009:2). Business tourism and its elements (meeting, conference, and convention centres) need to be managed effectively to provide a destination with a competitive edge. Thus it is important to determine the effectiveness and suitability of conference centres and destinations from the perspective of the delegate. This paper examines the responses of delegate of 49 Conferences in relation to the facilities at the International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal and the city of Durban as a conference destination. Whilst the broader concept of Business Tourism may encompass more than conferences as a business activity, this paper will show the need for “Conference Tourism” as significant component to Business Tourism. KwaZulu-Natal’s meetings and conferences are one of the most important attractions and activities of domestic and international tourists. This is clearly illustrated in the following tables:

scholarly journals ONLINE IDENTITY IN A PANDEMIC – FROM INNOVATION PRACTICE TO COMPETITVE ADVANTAGE THROUGH THE LEARNING PROCESS

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michaela Mihaylova ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Competitive Advantage ◽  
Learning Process ◽  
Learning Processes ◽  
General Knowledge ◽  
Online Identity ◽  
New Knowledge ◽  
Different Types ◽  
Marketing Activities ◽  
Positive Transformation ◽  
Marketing Actions

The current chapter presents the transformation of perception about the online identity of a business in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Online identity and related marketing activities, perceived until only recently as innovative actions, today are a prerequisite for a competitive advantage. The chapter comments on the general knowledge and understanding of this topic, the different types of innovations, the elements of online identity and the marketing actions related to them. The competitive advantage and the evolved view of its nature are outlined as a positive transformation – a creation of new knowledge as a result of the learning processes application.

scholarly journals Resolution of management issues with mega projects

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
◽  
Scelo Mhlongo
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Construction Projects ◽  
Turnaround Time ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Mixed Method Research ◽  
Western Cape ◽  
Logistic Management ◽  
Design Changes ◽  
Effective Delivery ◽  
Management Issues

South Africa is a developing country with many construction projects that are being undetaken. The study aims to contribute to the resolution of issues around the management of projects. Previous studies have revealed that there are many failures in the erection of mega projects. This study was based in three provinces in South Africa - KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and Western Cape. A mixed method research approach incorporating both qualitative and quantitive methods was used to collect empirical data from stakeholders working on mega projects. The data was collected using a structured questionnaire and focused individual interviews. The study established that management issues such as the lack of stakeholder engagement and poor logistics planning play a role in the failure of mega projects. The level of use of this research targeted companies which are at 8GB and 9GB and within those companies, professionals such as project managers, architects, quantity surveyors, foremen and site agents. The study recommends that in order for mega projects to be successful, stake holders must mitigate turnaround time on taking decisions. Also, sound decisions must be taken for effective delivery of mega projects. Findings suggests that plant down time contributes to the failure of a project. Regular plant schedule checking is done daily prior to plant operation. Findings on logistic management revealed that the leading factor is public safety. It is recommended that safety of public around projects needs to be managed closely by responsible site agents and safety officers. The change of designs during construction must be avoided since this brings unexpected material expenditure which impacts on the project costing. All cost occurring during design changes must be charged to the architect fees, unless the changes were unforeseen.

scholarly journals Protocol for Investigating the Technical Efficiency of District Hospitals in the Public Health Sector of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (Preprint)

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tesleem K Babalola ◽  
Indres Moodley
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Resource Allocation ◽  
Technical Efficiency ◽  
Policy Formulation ◽  
Data Availability ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Policy Makers ◽  
District Hospitals ◽  
Kwazulu Natal

BACKGROUND The central objective of policy makers and health managers is efficiency in the delivery of health care. With frequent reports of global economic crises, there is a need to continuously measure the performance of various sectors of the health care system. This can inform the decision-making process toward allocating scarce resources with the aim of maximizing output. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to determine the technical efficiency (TE) of public sector district hospitals in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa to provide information that will assist in policy formulation that may further assist in more efficient resource allocation decisions. METHODS This is a health system research based on a quantitative research approach. All 38 public district hospitals in the 11 municipalities of the province will be included in this study. The data for the study will include inputs from hospitals’ operations that contribute toward subsequent outputs. The input data will include information such as the number of health professionals (doctors, nurses, and other personnel) and number of hospital beds, whereas the output data will include information such as outpatient visits and number of admissions or discharge. Other data categories to be included will be determined by data availability and will be uniform for all facilities. Data for each facility for a 3-year period from 2014 to 2017 will be obtained from databases of the district health information, basic accounting, and personnel salary systems. On the basis of the data obtained, a model will be developed that can be used to assess how TE of public districts hospitals may be improved. TE will be determined using Data Envelopment Analysis, and factors influencing efficiency will be computed using StataCorp statistical package. RESULTS As of February 2019, the study is at the data collection, data input, and analysis stages. The results are expected to be available from the second quarter of 2019. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study can add to tools available to policy makers, health planners, and managers in making decisions about resource allocation in health care systems. Moreover, these findings will be disseminated electronically and in print. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPOR DERR1-10.2196/12037

Unit Managers’ Perceptions of Implementation of National Core Standards in Tertiary Hospitals

2019 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Winnie Thembisile Maphumulo ◽  
Busisiwe Bhengu
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Human Resources ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Healthcare Services ◽  
Working Environment ◽  
Staff Retention ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Services Delivery ◽  
Kwazulu Natal ◽  
Tertiary Hospitals

Globally, all healthcare systems face challenges in improving the quality of healthcare services delivery. In South Africa, the National Department of Health introduced the National Core Standards (NCS) tool in 2011 as affirmation of what is predicted to deliver decent, safe and high-quality care in healthcare establishments. The study presented in this paper aimed to determine unit managers’ perceptions of the implementation of the NCS in tertiary hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. This was a cross-sectional, descriptive survey. A purposive sampling technique was used to select hospitals offering secondary and tertiary services in KwaZulu-Natal. A census method was used to recruit all unit managers in the study. A census method is an attempt to list all elements or to use every unit in a group and to measure one or more characteristics of those elements. Out of the 169 population of unit managers counted in these hospitals, only 95 participated in the study. The collected data were analysed using SPSS Statistics version 25. The study showed that the participants’ perceptions were positive about the availability of material resources. However, a shortage of human resources in terms of numbers, skills, and skills mix was noted. The results also revealed that the participants’ perceptions of the availability of a positive working environment were negative. This study recommends that the healthcare authorities develop a strategic approach to manage scarce human resources by attracting, sourcing, selecting, training, developing, and retaining healthcare workers. This includes creating a positive working environment to promote staff retention.

Appreciating the Diversity of NGO’s Towards Service Delivery in South Africa: Drawing Evidences from Eastern Cape Province

2017 ◽  
Vol 9 (2) ◽  
pp. 126-140 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert Mutemi Kajiita ◽  
Simon Kang’ethe
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Service Delivery ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Mixed Method Research ◽  
Eastern Cape Province ◽  
Eastern Cape ◽  
The Public ◽  
Services Delivery ◽  
Medical Facilities ◽  
The Government

The dismantling of Apartheid era in South Africa in 1994, the advent of democratic era, was welcomed with a package of hope for the citizens as far as development was concerned. Since then, the government has been playing a key role in service delivery. Nonetheless, gaps exist in dispensing an array of services and this has prompted the interventions of NGOs in such developmental discourses. Through a mixed method research approach, this article explores the milestones of NGOs in South Africa while drawing pieces of evidence from Eastern Cape Province. The findings indicate that NGOs have responded positively to the prevention and treatment of various diseases, offered training and facilitated medical facilities in the province, promoted early childhood education and finally ensured regularity in services delivery. The article recommends that the public should appreciate and show goodwill to the efforts of the NGOs, pull their resources together to support and sustain the already existing NGO projects.

Assessment of residents’ attitude towards ecotourism in KwaZulu-Natal protected areas

2015 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
pp. 316-328 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bola Olusola Adeleke
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Protected Areas ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Target Population ◽  
Development Projects ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Research Fellowship ◽  
Kwazulu Natal ◽  
High Level

Purpose – The purpose of this paper was to assess the attitude of residents towards ecotourism in KwaZulu-Natal protected areas. It also determined how barriers to ecotourism trips could negatively affect the success of tourism development in protected areas. The new South Africa today has widely and innovatively embraced ecotourism based largely around the protected areas. Residents’ attitude towards tourism is one of the important indicators for sustainable development in protected areas. Design/methodology/approach – In total, 212 copies of structured questionnaires were used to collect information for the study. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the target population of the protected areas while respondents were selected from the communities based on random sampling technique. Mean scores for barriers to ecotourism trips were determined. Descriptive statistics and T-test inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. Findings – The results agree with the theory of planned behaviour where intentions of residents to participate in ecotourism were directly influenced by barriers such as no time, low income and no transportation. It was also found out that preference for ecotourism trips was significantly influenced by the various barriers to ecotourism activities. High level of unemployment and high level of illiteracy were considered to be responsible for poor attitude in Kwadlangezwa with many (43.4 per cent) unwilling to support ecotourism development projects. Research limitations/implications – The research implication infers that high level of poverty and illiteracy in communities surrounding protected areas could seriously indicate non-support for development projects. Practical implications – Ecotourism-related businesses need be developed in destinations to alleviate poverty. Social implications – The moral of residents need be boosted through workshops and educative seminars. Originality/value – The study was conducted during the author’s research fellowship with the Department of Recreation and Tourism, University of Zululand, Kwadlangezwa, South Africa.

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