Research Articles (Graduate School of Technology Management (GSTM))

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/1703

The Graduate School of Technology Management was established as a fourth school in the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology with effect from 1 January 2007.

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 434

Determining the upper economic limit of wind fleets
(South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering, 2024-08-16) Walwyn, David Richard; Stephens, Anthony D.
Wind fleets have become significant energy sources within national grids. However, future expansion of wind fleet capacity may result in little incremental benefit due to the inability of present grid architectures to absorb high levels of excess generation. Determining the upper economic limit is a topical issue but its solution is complicated by variations in energy system architectures and local weather conditions, making energy models essential to system planning. This paper outlines a simplified methodology, referred to as the histogram model, to calculate the upper economic limit for wind fleets, based on annual data for energy generation, recorded at hourly intervals, and the system’s headroom, defined as the difference between base load and demand. The amount of ‘useful energy’ is derived from the wind energy frequency table, the total installed wind fleet capacity, and the headroom. The calculations lead to values for the incremental decarbonisation cost, which can be directly compared to the cost of decarbonisation for gas-based energy generation. The results indicate that the upper economic limit is a wind fleet capacity of 3 times the headroom, where 78% of the required energy is derived from wind and the wind fleet efficiency is 82% (18%of the available wind energy is shed). The development of the model has implications for energy planners, who can now more easily simulate the performance of energy systems as a function of various input parameters.
Draw to a close : inventor triad dynamics and invention quality
(Routledge, 2025-07) Nan, Ding; Markus, Arjan; Oerlemans, Leon A.G.
Instead of comparing open and closed triads as static phenomena, this study examines how closure dynamics among inventors impact the extent to which inventors generate high-quality inventions at the triad level. Combining literature on small group synergy, social networks, and recombinant innovation, we propose that initial open triads of collaborating inventors that turn into a closed triad generate higher quality inventions than triads that maintain open. We also examine how the connectedness of the triad moderates the relationship between triad closure and the generation of triadic high-quality inventions. Using a matched sample of open and closed triads from 1987 to 2008, we find that over time, open triads that turn into closed ones generate higher-quality inventions than triads that remain open. Moreover, the triad’s degree of connectedness weakens the triadic closure’s positive impact on inventive performance. We discuss the implications for the study of innovation, network triads, and collective synergy.
Soft skills and learning methods for 21st-century project management
(SciKA, 2024) Kearney, Jason; Bond-Barnard, Taryn; Chugh, Ritesh
This article addresses a prominent gap in the literature by investigating the crucial soft skills required by project management students, graduates, and new practitioners entering the contemporary workforce. The literature review study adopts a concept-centric approach to examine the essential soft skills and effective learning methods for new project managers in the 21st century. Five essential 21st-century project management soft skills (communication, leadership, interpersonal, teamwork and emotional intelligence) were identified, along with three learning methods (experiential, active and reflective) that can be used to develop them. The implications of this research extend to project management students, graduates, and educators alike, emphasising the importance of nurturing the identified soft skills. As the project management domain evolves, the findings highlight the need for an education that prioritises hands-on learning and reflective practices, enabling emerging project managers to excel in their roles and drive project success.
An adaptive organisational leadership framework through systems thinking
(Emerald, 2025) Abukalusa, Khalid; Oosthuizen, Rudolph; rudolph.oosthuizen@up.ac.za
PURPOSE : The purpose of this study is to present an adaptive organisational leadership framework using systems thinking (ST) to address challenges within volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA) environments. The framework is intended to guide leaders in improving organisational adaptability and resilience. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH : A systematic literature review was conducted alongside qualitative interviews with 16 experienced leaders from various sectors. A semi-structured interview format ensured robust validation of the proposed framework. The synthesis of primary and secondary data identified critical elements for effective adaptive leadership in a VUCA context. FINDINGS : The adaptive leadership framework consists of three core components: the leader, the followers and the organisational context. ST, future thinking, mental models and adaptive change management form the structural basis of the framework. Interviews with industry experts highlighted mental models’ critical role in adaptive change, highlighting their importance for decision-making. The findings demonstrate the framework’s potential for enhancing strategic responses to complex challenges. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS : The framework provides practical guidance for contemporary leaders, helping them to foster a culture of adaptability within their organisations to manage complex situations better. ORIGINALITY/VALUE : This research introduces a novel framework integrating adaptive leadership qualities with ST principles. A systemigram illustrates how interconnected elements empower leaders to navigate dynamic environments effectively. The framework addresses current leadership model gaps by promoting resilience and agility.
Lean construction : implementing the last planner system on mining projects
(Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, 2024-01) Govindasamy, T.; Bekker, M.C. (Michiel Christiaan); giel.bekker@up.ac.za
The potential benefits of implementing the Last Planner System (LPS) on mining infrastructure projects were explored through two case studies in the South African mining industry. The first part of the study involved measurement of the impact of LPS through earned value techniques on secondary project data. The second part sought to establish the lean construction success factors leading to improvements in construction performance. This was done by means of a research questionnaire distributed to the project owner’s teams, contracted parties, and the LPS facilitators. The results revealed a positive correlation between LPS application and planned percentage complete. However, the performance achieved during the LPS pilot was not sustained. The success factors and benefits considered most evident in the case study pilot differed among the three stakeholder groups. The findings are expected to guide construction stakeholders to better define performance measures and focus on factors required to make LPS implementation more effective in the South African mining sector.
Exploring first-year engineering student perceptions of peer-led study groups in a Global South context
(JSAA Editors in collaboration with University of Pretoria, 2024-07) Versfeld, Jessica; Vinson, Caitlin; jessica.versfeld@up.ac.za
The purpose of the study is to explore the advantages of study groups for first-year engineering students in a challenged Global South context. The research aims to explore how the support and resources provided by the peer-led study groups can help students cope with the stressors and challenges that are often associated with the transition to university and the demands of an engineering programme. Educational institutions prioritise student development, yet many student initiatives overlook student agency and that understanding students’ learning approaches is necessary for effective support initiatives. A total of 40 registered engineering students, who voluntarily enrolled in the peer-led study groups, were the subjects of this study at the University of Pretoria. The research adopted a qualitative approach and aimed to explore the advantages of study groups. Data were collected through interviews and surveys with both students and study group leaders to gain their respective views on the strengths and areas for improvement of the learning community experience. The research was conducted using qualitative methods to gain a deeper understanding of students’ experiences with study groups and the associated benefits. Through participation in study groups, students benefited from the support of their peers, opportunities for alternative problem solving methods, and improved academic performance. Furthermore, the smaller group size and collaborative nature of these groups created a supportive and empowering learning environment, where students felt confident to ask questions and engage in meaningful learning opportunities.
A qualitative study illustrating factors that enable and constrain academic advising practices in a Global South context
(Frontiers Media, 2024-10) Versfeld, Jessica; Mapaling, Curwyn; jessica.versfeld@up.ac.za
INTRODUCTION: Academic advising plays a crucial role in South African higher education, especially considering the country’s diverse student population, historical injustices, and socio-economic inequalities. However, there is a lack of research supporting academic advising practices in this context. METHODS: This study employs a qualitative methodology, using semi-structured in-depth interviews with four academic advisors from the Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology (EBIT) department at a South African university. A socio-ecological lens is applied to explore the factors enabling and constraining best practices in academic advising. RESULTS: Key findings reveal that academic advisors face challenges such as limited resources and institutional support. However, opportunities exist for fostering student resilience and academic success. The study identifies enablers and constraints across microsystemic (e.g., advisor passion and resilience), mesosystemic (e.g., interdepartmental collaboration), and macrosystemic (e.g., institutional policies, socio-economic factors) levels. DISCUSSION: As part of the Global South, South Africa shares many socioeconomic and educational challenges with other countries in the region. The study’s findings offer insights that may be relevant to similar contexts. By illuminating the mechanisms that empower the academic advising community, this research seeks to inform the development of more effective student support interventions. The socio-ecological framework provides a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected influences contributing to the efficacy and challenges faced by academic advisors in engineering departments.
The relationship between PMO support functions and project management maturity levels : a case study of a South African petrochemical company
(Southern African Institute for Industrial Engineering, 2024-08-30) Bezuidenhout, A.; Steyn, Herman; Pretorius, Suzaan; suzaan.pretorius@up.ac.za
This paper identifies the essential support functions of project management offices (PMO) for various organisational project management maturity (OPMM) levels. A case study of a South African petrochemical company compares a PMO within the company with a small projects department that is not supported by a PMO. OPMM development drivers and essential PMO support functions are identified for both structures. It is proposed that the requirements of essential PMO support functions depend on the OPMM level, but are also affected by business needs. The highest OPMM level is not required for every organisation, as the optimum OPMM level depends on the specific business’ requirements.
Project management maturity and its impact on perceived project success : a case study
(Southern African Institute for Industrial Engineering, 2024-08-30) Burger, E.; Pretorius, Suzaan; Steyn, Herman; suzaan.pretorius@up.ac.za
A notion exists that organisations with higher levels of project management maturity execute projects more effectively and efficiently and so have a higher probability of achieving project success. This paper reports on a single case study that measured the project management maturity of four project management knowledge areas, and also investigated the impact of project management maturity on perceived project success in a mining operation. The study found that project management maturity plays a pivotal role in achieving project management deliverables. However, project management maturity alone is not sufficient to guarantee project success.
The reshaping of curriculum transformation to address the 21st-century skill sets and employment prospects during the Fourth Industrial Revolution era : a case of the South Africa TVET colleges
(Stellenbosch University, 2024) Kana, Nomso; Letaba, Tshotleho Petrus
This research explores the employability of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college graduates in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) era in South Africa. It examines the role of TVET lecturers in providing skills that are relevant to the contemporary period. The study uses qualitative research inspired by the interpretivist approach, and a purposive sampling strategy to get the perspectives of TVET lecturers and employers. It was observed that TVET lecturers play a minimal role in the development of the curriculum due to a rigid top-down approach from the Ministry of Higher Education. Companies are forming partnerships with TVET colleges by offering places for in-service training, practicals and internships. The study reveals that South African businesses have adopted 4IR-related technologies, requiring a skilled TVET force that is ready for these transformations. The findings highlight the need for regular curriculum transformation and the importance of TVET education in producing artisans, technologists and technicians that are vital for the South African economy on an ongoing basis.
Temporal characterization of land use change and land-scape processes in informal settlements in the City of Cape Town, South Africa
(CONSAS Conference, 2024-07) Okoye, Perpetua Ifeoma; Lalk, Jorg
This study conducted a Land Use Change (LUC) analysis on informal settlements in Cape Town, South Africa, using bi-temporal steps, S1 (2010) and S2 (2016), to characterize land use (LU) conversions and landscape processes for informed policymaking. Utilizing the 2011 na-tional land cover dataset and post-classification methods, two LU datasets and maps, D1 for S1 and D2 for S2, were derived. These classifications achieved an overall accuracy exceeding 95%, with Kappa coefficients above 0.9. The analysis employed change trajectories and con-version labels to evaluate LU changes and landscape dynamics, providing a thematic repre-sentation of LUC within informal settlements. Landscape reclamation processes, including abandonment, urban development, and RDP (Reconstruction and Development Programme) development, constituted approximately five percent of the total LU conversions, while degra-dation processes like persistence and intensification dominated, affecting approximately 93% of the area. Partial reclamation, notably through interspersed RDP (RDPi), accounted for about two percent of conversions. These findings highlight the importance of accurate and timely LUC data reporting in informal settlements to address socioeconomic challenges effec-tively and support policy decisions to enhance these communities' physical and socioeconomic infrastructure.
Feature guided training and rotational standardization for the morphological classification of radio galaxies
(Oxford University Press, 2023-04) Brand, Kevin; Grobler, Trienko L.; Kleynhans, Waldo; Vaccari, Mattia; Prescott, Matthew; Becker, Burger
State-of-the-art radio observatories produce large amounts of data which can be used to study the properties of radio galaxies. However, with this rapid increase in data volume, it has become unrealistic to manually process all of the incoming data, which in turn led to the development of automated approaches for data processing tasks, such as morphological classification. Deep learning plays a crucial role in this automation process and it has been shown that convolutional neural networks (CNNs) can deliver good performance in the morphological classification of radio galaxies. This paper investigates two adaptations to the application of these CNNs for radio galaxy classification. The first adaptation consists of using principal component analysis (PCA) during pre-processing to align the galaxies’ principal components with the axes of the coordinate system, which will normalize the orientation of the galaxies. This adaptation led to a significant improvement in the classification accuracy of the CNNs and decreased the average time required to train the models. The second adaptation consists of guiding the CNN to look for specific features within the samples in an attempt to utilize domain knowledge to improve the training process. It was found that this adaptation generally leads to a stabler training process and in certain instances reduced overfitting within the network, as well as the number of epochs required for training.
Draw to a close : inventor triad dynamics and invention quality
(Routledge, 2024) Nan, Ding; Markus, Arjan; Oerlemans, Leon A.G.
Instead of comparing open and closed triads as static phenomena, this study examines how closure dynamics among inventors impact the extent to which inventors generate high-quality inventions at the triad level. Combining literature on small group synergy, social networks, and recombinant innovation, we propose that initial open triads of collaborating inventors that turn into a closed triad generate higher quality inventions than triads that maintain open. We also examine how the connectedness of the triad moderates the relationship between triad closure and the generation of triadic high-quality inventions. Using a matched sample of open and closed triads from 1987 to 2008, we find that over time, open triads that turn into closed ones generate higher-quality inventions than triads that remain open. Moreover, the triad’s degree of connectedness weakens the triadic closure’s positive impact on inventive performance. We discuss the implications for the study of innovation, network triads, and collective synergy.
Institutionalizing foresight in science, technology, and innovation in sub-Saharan Africa
(Wiley, 2024-06) Ouma-Mugabe, John; Botha, Anthon; Letaba, Petrus; john.mugabe@up.ac.za
MOTIVATION : Foresight is increasingly being institutionalized and used in science, technology and innovation (STI) policy processes around the world. Foresight is a toolbox to help decision-makers generate intelligence about future scientific and technological advances and to frame long-term STI policy goals and rationales. Foresight can be used to inform policy to steer research and innovation (R&I) towards attaining sustainable development goals. Yet, foresight is not institutionalized and used in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) at a time when many governments are formulating new STI policies and some of their science granting councils (SGCs) are setting R&I priorities. PURPOSE : This exploratory study is about challenges and opportunities of institutionalizing STI foresight in SSA. It identifies ways of institutionalizing and using STI foresight. METHODS AND APPROACH : A literature review, bibliometric analysis, interviews, an online survey, and focus group discussions were conducted to identify challenges to, and lessons for, institutionalizing STI foresight in SSA. The literature identified good practices for institutionalizing STI foresight in selected developed countries, to draw lessons for SSA. FINDINGS : While academic research on STI foresight and related topics is increasing, there is very limited foresight practice in STI policy processes in SSA. This is mainly owing to low awareness of STI foresight, weak technical capacity, and generally a lack of foresight culture in STI policy-making in the region. POLICY IMPLICATIONS : Building capacity within governments and establishing a community of practice in STI foresight may help improve the quality and effectiveness of STI policy in SSA. It may enable institutions such as science granting councils (SGCs) to make informed funding decisions, targeting scarce resources at priority research and innovation. Overall, building STI foresight literacy and skills, as well as establishing designated offices for STI foresight, supported by the knowledge to select and adapt foresight tools, will result in improved STI policy-making in SSA.
A framework for developing systems engineering management for process plant acquisition projects
(Wiley, 2025-01) Moodley, Denver; Oosthuizen, Rudolph; rudolph.oosthuizen@up.ac.za
South Africa has a history of poor performance on process plant acquisition projects in the process industry that apply chemical processes within large processing facilities to convert raw materials such as crude oil into fuel and by-products. The most recent failures include the highly publicized Medupi and Kusile projects. This research is based on the acquisition or expansion of large process plants within petrochemical, mining, and energy, typically Systems of Systems integration projects. A significant component of their failings can be attributed to poor systems engineering and systems engineering management capabilities. Acquisition in the context of this study refers to all processes within the stage-gate project development model from project inception to the beneficial operation of the acquired facility. Due to a lack of systems and tools to guide the development of systems engineers and systems engineering managers within the sector, this research was undertaken to develop an industry-specific framework based on the INCOSE framework to support development and recruitment processes. A conceptual model derived from a literature survey was validated and improved with qualitative data gathered using structured open-ended interviews with industry specialists and experts from organizations within the petrochemical, mining, and energy sectors. Insights regarding current recruitment practices and development processes were analyzed to validate the need for a tool and develop an appropriate model for its application. Finally, the analysis and general causes of project failures validated the contents of the framework by highlighting critical competencies and traits required to succeed within the sector.
Deficiencies in the traditional budgeting process cause the negative behaviour of budgetary slacking
(AOSIS, 2024-06) Ramlall, Rishen; Grobbelaar, Schalk; schalk.grobbelaar@up.ac.za
PURPOSE : This study delves into the inadequacies of the traditional budgeting process and their role in instigating budgetary slacking behaviour within organisations. It aims to unveil the underlying mechanisms behind this behaviour and provides practical insights for organisational enhancement. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH : Grounded in the theory of planned behaviour, this research scrutinises the impact of attitudes, subjective norms (SN) and perceived behavioural control (PBC) on intentions related to budgetary slacking. The study employs a mixed-method approach involving literature review, case studies and surveys across various individuals in different organisations. FINDINGS/RESULTS : Attitudes significantly mould budgetary slacking behaviour, underscoring the importance of positive perceptions concerning the strategic value of budgeting. Subjective norms assume a pivotal role, emphasising the need to align societal pressures with objectives related to value creation. Perceived behavioural control emerges as a critical factor, highlighting the significance of autonomy and authority in decision-making. This research reinforces the shift towards agile and responsive budgeting approaches as a countermeasure to budgetary slacking. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS : Organisations can address the flaws inherent in traditional budgeting by cultivating positive attitudes, realigning SNs and endowing practitioners with greater perceived control. This cultural shift enhances financial stability, resource allocation and strategic decision-making. ORIGINALITY/VALUE : This study contributes to comprehending the behavioural aspects of budgetary slacking and its repercussions on organisational performance. It advocates for a transformative shift towards agile, adaptive and value-oriented budgeting, benefiting managers, policymakers and researchers aiming to refine budgeting processes.
Startups’ innovation programmes : a food industry versus university cases
(AOSIS, 2024-07) Govender, Elisha A.; Van der Lingen, Elma; elma.vanderlingen@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND: Collaborations with external partners such as startups have been shown to bring agile and consumer-centric advantages to businesses to allow for future-proofing benefits as well as improve the rankings of universities. This type of collaboration can occur through innovation programmes with businesses and universities. AIM: This study aims to compare the innovation programmes of industry and university that are offered to collaborating startups. SETTING: This study was conducted in South Africa and included two case studies, respectively, from a local university-based incubator and a multinational industry. METHODS: The research methodology follows an exploratory approach, allowing for theory building research through case studies from industry and a university incubator. The research is qualitative and makes use of interviews from industry, the university incubator and startups to draw comparisons on each innovation programme. RESULTS: The study’s findings confirmed the prominent differences that occur in the communication method, use of third parties in the screening and selection phase, resources offered and onboarding process of the startups. Key benefits and challenges were also identified throughout the collaboration process. CONCLUSION: The research has provided insight into the innovation programmes of both industry and university and how each entity can cross-pollinate learnings by reflecting on the challenges, benefits and recommendations highlighted by the study. CONTRIBUTION: The study has practical implications that academics and practitioners can use to gain knowledge and further improve their innovation programmes with startups.
Application of cognitive work analysis in support of systems engineering of a socio-technical system
(Inderscience, 2024-01) Van den Heever, Henk; Oosthuizen, Rudolph; rudolph.oosthuizen@up.ac.za
This paper presents a validation workflow to support system requirements analysis. Systems engineering supports the development of socio-technical systems. However, the traditional systems engineering approach of reducing the system to component level to perform detailed designs and integrate them into a solution system may miss unexpected emergent behaviour when introducing a new technology into a socio-technical system. It may require changes in the socio-technical system's information flows, processes and procedures. Ignoring these emerging requirements may result in undesirable results or failures in the system. Cognitive work analysis, with work domain analysis in particular, provides a framework for analysing, modelling and designing socio-technical systems. The output abstraction hierarchy models were evaluated using a focus group approach for perceived utility in uncovering potential design emergence. The focus groups supported both the models and the proposed method. This structured approach will support requirements capturing and analysis for developing and engineering socio-technical systems.
Value creation in the African cement market : a model and validation
(JCMAN, 2023) Meyer, Johan Andries Muller; Pretorius, Leon; leon.pretorius@up.ac.za
PURPOSE OF THE STUDY : This research sets out to develop a systems-thinking-based conceptual model that can be used by the cement service industry to market its products and services in Africa; to review the literature to identify available systems-thinking approaches that are used in the industry and to determine how they are used in the field of value engineering; and to identify the key challenges that prevent the diffusion of engineering products and services in Africa. DESIGN/METHODOGY/APPROACH: A descriptive narrative inquiry in the form of unstructured interviews with industry experts was conducted, together with a literature review, to validate and test the proposed model. FINDINGS : The research findings suggest that, in today’s unforgiving economic climate and ever-changing business environment, characterised by globalisation and increased competitiveness, it is increasingly important for every cement manufacturer to streamline its processes, optimise its overall equipment effectiveness, and effectively implement tested cost-reduction methods to remain competitive in the market. RECOMMENDATIONS : It is recommended for future research that this model be tested in a real market environment by a company operating in the African cement industry. The real market environment would test the model’s stages for applicability, effectiveness, and reliability. MANAGERIAL IMPLICATIONS : The research in this study supports the use of the proposed model to penetrate the African market and to help managers who are servicing the cement industry to be successful in the region. As suggested by the findings from the literature review, the success of this model would ultimately be determined by management, who should communicate the clear goals and expectations of this model and supply employees with the resources needed to help the company to achieve its set goals.
Single versus multiple project teams and individual performance : do they ask for different leadership behaviors?
(Elsevier, 2024-02) Kenda, Renata; Meslec, Nicoleta; Oerlemans, Leon A.G.
Multiple project team membership is a prevalent phenomenon in modern organizational life. However, is any leadership behavior in such a setting beneficial to individual team members' performance? Our study suggests that working in a multiple project team setting requires particular types of leadership. In an experimental design, we manipulated charismatic and boundary-spanning leadership behaviors in single and multiple team project settings and we studied their effects on project members’ performance. When workers are part of a single team, charismatic leadership enhances their performance to a greater extent than a boundary spanning leader. When members are part of two project teams concurrently, boundary-spanning leadership behavior becomes more beneficial for individual performance compared to charismatic leadership. The main theoretical contribution lies in the insight that different organizational project forms ask for different leadership behaviors to nurture individual performance. Practically, (future) project leaders must be prepared for operating in different project settings.

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