Research Articles (Graduate School of Management)

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n-Values of commercial YBCO tapes before and after irradiation by fast neutrons
(IOP Publishing Limited, 2015-01) Chudy, Michal; Zhong, Z.; Eisterer, M.; Coombs, Tim
The n-value is an important superconducting parameter, which represents the homogeneity of characterized superconductor as well as thermally activated depinning. In addition n-values are important for the evaluation of pinning mechanisms and pinning forces. n-values are crucial input parameters for the numerical simulations of superconducting tapes, coils and other complicated superconducting applications where E-J power law applies. In this publication, complex measurement data of n-values from different 2nd generation of high temperature superconducting (2G HTS) tapes are presented and analysed. In addition, 2G HTS tapes were step by step irradiated by fast neutron fluences up to 1x1022 m-2 . n-values of the irradiated tapes, containing additional randomly distributed pinning centres, are presented, analysed and compared with unirradiated samples. Special attention is placed on the underlying physics resulting in power-law part of the I-V curve and on the correlation between critical currents and n-values. The measurements are performed within the temperature range of 50 K-85 K and magnetic fields up to 15 T.
Effect of platinum group metal addition on microstructure and corrosion behaviour of Ti-47.5 at-%Al
(Maney, 2014-05) Mwamba, I.A.; Cornish, L.A.; Van der Lingen, Elma
Plain and alloyed titanium aluminides of composition Ti–47?5 at-%Al were prepared with the addition of 1?0 at-% platinum group metals (PGMs). The as cast alloys were subjected to potentiodynamic scans in 5, 15 and 25 wt-%HCl solutions at room temperature, and the PGM containing alloys were assessed for their abilities to spontaneously passivate by cathodic modification. Plain titanium aluminide had a duplex microstructure consisting of lamellar (a2 and c alternating lamellae) and c-TiAl phase grains. The introduction of 1?0 at-%PGMs (platinum, palladium and iridium) led to the formation of a new phase, developing more in the c-TiAl phase grains and a general improvement of corrosion resistance by increasing the corrosion potential to nobler values. Platinum group metal additions to plain TiAl resulted in the corrosion potentials falling in the passive region of plain TiAl, indicating spontaneous passivation of PGM alloyed TiAl in 5 and 15 wt-%HCl solutions. In 25 wt-%HCl solution, the addition of PGMs shifted the cathodic process in the transpassive or active region of plain TiAl, resulting in either case in the dissolution of the alloy due to the absence of an extended passivation region. The cathodic modification of PGM alloyed TiAl occurred as a result of PGM accumulation on the surface of the TiAl alloys, which simultaneously improved the hydrogen evolution efficiency and inhibited anodic dissolution.
Financial management education : is there a gap between academics and practitioners?
(Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, University of Pretoria, 1999-09) Wolmarans, H.P. (Hendrik Petrus)
From previous studies it seems that Financial Management may be regarded an important managerial skill. This study investigates the importance of different topics in Finance. The ranking of these topics according to their importance, as perceived by academics versus practitioners, is compared here. It was found that some topics are indeed regarded as more important than others. There were significant differences in die rankings of topics by the two groups of respondents. Areas which practitioners believe need more research to enhance the value of Finance for South African managers are indicated. Finally, conclusions are drawn about the implications of this study for the volatile management environment in South Africa, and possible areas for further research are indicated.
Seasonal timing using put option portfolio protection on the Johannesburg Securities Exchange
(Investment Analysts Society of Southern Africa, 2006) Muller, C.; Ward, Michael; mike.ward@up.ac.za
No abstract available
Management and leadership : buccaneering or science?
(Emerald, 2008) Nienaber, Hester; Roodt, Gert
PURPOSE: This paper aims to determine the views of a select group of manager-students on general management and leadership and whether or not their views correspond to classical management theory. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: An exploratory-descriptive approach was employed. Specifically, a survey was conducted among final-year MBA students of a specific university. These students were all employed in management positions in their respective organisations. FINDINGS: The students viewed general management and leadership as being the same and their views correspond to the theory underpinning classical management. RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS: Statistically, the findings cannot be generalised beyond the scope of this study due to its exploratory nature. However, the concepts referred to in this study can inform and be tested in further research. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: It would seem that there is indeed a body of knowledge underpinning classical management. Mastery of this knowledge could enable managers to ensure the preferred competitive positions of their organisations. ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This paper focuses attention anew on classical management and its scientific nature as well as its contribution to the sustained competitive success of organisations.
The persistence of unit trust performance for the period July 1985-June 1995
(Association for Professional Managers in South Africa, 1998-09) Meyer, Margaret C.
The purpose of this study was to determine whether any persistence of performance existed in the unit trust industry in South Africa over the ten-year period from July 1985 to June 1995. Calculations were done over different time periods (one-, two- and four-year periods) and using different definitions of superior performance (positive Jensen alphas or winner/loser phenomena). Results of nominal returns and risk-adjusted returns were also compared. Results obtained show that persistence in performance does exist, but that it is more of a 'loser' phenomenon than a 'winner' phenomenon.
Towards an MBA selection model : a South African case study
(Richard Havenga & Associates, 2004-09) Adendorff, S.A. (Susan Aletta), 1961-; North, Christa
Describes the approach developed by the University of Pretoria's Graduate School of Management for the selection of suitable candidates for the MBA programme.
Management : making a difference to our competitive challenge
(Richard Havenga & Associates, 2004-08) Nienaber, Hester
Focuses on the significance of management in modern day organizations with specific focus on South Africa's unique competitive challenges.
Managing for performance
(Richard Havenga & Associates, 2004-09) Nienaber, Hester
Human performance improvement as methodology can assist managers in fulfilling its ultimate responsibility, i.e. the firm’s performance. Performance improvement requires attention to the total performance system, in a methodical way to ensure that the root of deficient performance is uncovered and consequently rectified.
Advanced engineering, technology and project management education
(Richard Havenga & Associates, 2004-10) Benade, S.J. (Siebert)
Describes how the University of Pretoria addresses the need for new leaders in industry by offering postgraduate management programmes focused specifically on the technology based enterprise.
Corporate governance criteria as applied in private equity investments
(Association for Professional Managers in South Africa, 2005-03) Millson, R.; Ward, Michael; mike.ward@up.ac.za
Ineffective governance has often formed a backdrop to corporate failure with the resultant negative impact on stakeholders. In the field of private equity, investors have consistently received financial returns that outperform those of listed equities. This research investigates the relationship that private equity principals seek with their agents. The "agent-principal" relationship in private equity investments was investigated through a literature review and a survey of experienced private equity practitioners identified the key characteristics associated with this relationship. A conjoint analytical technique was used to measure the relative importance of the various attributes and the degree of preference or utility value for these attributes amongst a sample of 27 experts. The field research established that private equity investments are characterised by, inter alia, proactive agent-principal relationships; a relatively high level of shareholder activism; insistence on transparency; non-executive influence; and active performance management. While the implementation of these lessons may be a subject for future research, the current research has identified and prioritised corporate governance mechanisms that may be more generally applied.
Assessing the management status of South Africa
(Emerald, 2007) Nienaber, Hester; hester.nienaber@up.ac.za
Design/methodology/approach – This is achieved by firstly, providing a concise summary of the classical management theory. This is followed by a presentation of selected dimensions of South Africa's economic, social and political profile (cultural profile), as reflected in secondary sources. A discussion of South Africa's profile vis-à-vis management theory is presented. Findings – The findings show that South Africa is faced with unique competitive challenges, which fall within the realm of management. Unfortunately, the unavailability of competent senior managers forms part of South Africa's problem, aggravating the situation. Practical implications – The practical implications are that South African managers need to face their reality, by acquainting themselves with the sound theory underpinning management, available from reputable sources and applying these principles with insight. In so doing they will not only improve the competitive positions of their enterprises but also that of South Africa, as a whole. Moreover, they will impact the economy positively, be it domestically, regionally or globally and reap the benefits of success just like other firms and countries. Originality/value – This paper is original in the sense that it seeks to give a comprehensive, however, brief overview of a complex topic, classical management, while linking it to South Africa's unique challenges. The value of this script lies in the concise presentation of classical management thought and the consequent implication that its consistent application could play a vital role in overcoming the competitive challenges facing South Africa.

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