Department of Information Science

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Browsing Department of Information Science by Author "Bekwa, Phindile"

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    Information orientation : a critical analysis of state-owned enterprises in South Africa
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2023-03) Bekwa, Phindile; Blaauw, Dewald; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Information Science.
    ENGLISH SUMMARY: The South African State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) generate and use large volumes of information on a daily basis as they operate business processes in documents, emails, websites and IT processes, thereby making information a key organisational asset that can provide a competitive advantage when managed accurately and efficiently. The generation of substantial volumes of information tends to compromise an efficient and effective application of information and knowledge in organisations. This study seeks to analyse and determine the Information Orientation (IO) maturity levels of SOEs, using the Information Orientation Model of Marchand and Kettinger (2011). The study further attempts to understand how the implementation of the Michael Porter’s Competitive Model impacts the Information Technology practices, Information Management practices and Information Behaviours and Value (IBV) of SOEs in South Africa. Additionally, the study further explores the three information capabilities, namely; IT, IM and people’s behaviour and values (IBV), in relation to their current application in SOEs. A sample of SOEs have served as the study population in this research. Data was collected from astute organisational representatives because of their understanding of organisational strategies, processes, culture and climate. Senior managers were the targeted respondents to solicit their perspectives and understanding regarding the management and use of information within their organisations. This research was conducted through a survey administered by means of a questionnaire that was sent to respondents through email. Covid made it impossible to conduct in-person and virtual interviews, as some respondents had no technological means to respond through person-to-person interactions. Many of the SOEs were not reachable, even virtually. During the time of the study it was an abnormal period in SA. A thematic analysis was used. The analysis is framed on the three main capabilities of Information Orientation. The collected data indicates that SOEs embrace the notion that it is important to sense information internally and externally in order to identify areas that might negatively or positively affect business. The study determined that a systematic, standardized and centralised approach is needed in the organising and enhancing of easy access into information. The findings show that most SOEs in South Africa have a high proportion of the IMP and ITP in their decision-making processes but the portion for IBV is comparatively low. The results confirmed that the human element of the IO model is neglected by most organisations, putting more investment into IT infrastructure. Therefore, IBV needs to be mainstreamed and integrated into SOE information strategies in order to improve outputs and to facilitate the achievement of their socioeconomic mandates.