Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Mineral industries – Australia – Management'
To see the other types of publications on this topic, follow the link: Mineral industries – Australia – Management.
Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles
Consult the top 50 dissertations / theses for your research on the topic 'Mineral industries – Australia – Management.'
Next to every source in the list of references, there is an 'Add to bibliography' button. Press on it, and we will generate automatically the bibliographic reference to the chosen work in the citation style you need: APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago, Vancouver, etc.
You can also download the full text of the academic publication as pdf and read online its abstract whenever available in the metadata.
Browse dissertations / theses on a wide variety of disciplines and organise your bibliography correctly.
1
Park, Yearn Hong. "A comparative study of international mineral taxation systems : Canada's competitive position." Thesis, McGill University, 1986. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=65436.
Full text
2
Beukes, Cecilia Johanna. "A management accounting strategy for mining rehabilitation." Thesis, Pretoria : [s.n.], 1999. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-01192007-131232/.
Full text
3
Mouat, Jeremy. "Mining in the settler dominions : a comparative study of the industry in three communities from the 1880s to the First World War." Thesis, University of British Columbia, 1988. http://hdl.handle.net/2429/29037.
Full textAbstract:
This dissertation examines the evolution of the mining industry in three British dominions during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Adopting a case study approach, it describes the establishment and growth of mining in Rossland, British Columbia; Broken Hill, New South Wales; and Waihi, New Zealand.
Separate chapters trace developments in each area, focussing on the emergence of organised labour, the growth of mining companies and the sophistication of mining operations. These underline the need to consider diverse themes, maintaining that the mining industry's pattern of growth can be understood only by adopting such a broad approach. Following the three case studies, the final chapters of the dissertation offer a comparative analysis of Rossland, Waihi and Broken Hill. The study emphasises the similarities of these three communities, especially the cycle of growth, and identifies a crucial common denominator.
Despite differences in climate, in the type and nature of the ore deposit and in the scale of mining activity, all three areas experienced a common trajectory of initial boom followed by subsequent retrenchment. The changing character of the resource base forced this fundamental alteration of productive relations. In each region, the mineral content of the ore declined as the mines went deeper. In addition, with depth the ore tended to become more difficult to treat. Faced with a decline in the value of the product of their mines, companies had to adopt sweeping changes in order to maintain profitable operations. This re-structuring was accomplished in a variety of ways, but the most significant factors, common to Rossland, Broken Hill and Waihi, were the heightened importance of applied science and economies of scale. Both developments underlined the growing importance of the mining engineer and technological innovations, principally in milling and smelting operations. In addition, new non-selective extractive techniques reduced the significance of skilled underground labour.
The re-structuring of the industry not only had similar causes but also had a similar effect. The comparative chapter on labour relations, for example, argues that these managerial initiatives were closely associated with militant episodes in each community. While the leading companies in Rossland, Waihi and Broken Hill successfully reduced their working costs, they all faced the same ultimate end. Their long-term success or failure reflected the skill with which they coped with the inevitable depletion of their ore body.
The common experience of Rossland, Waihi and Broken Hill demonstrates the importance of placing colonial development within a larger context. Regional historians should make greater use of the comparative approach, rather than continuing to focus on the unique and the particular.Arts, Faculty of
History, Department of
Graduate
4
Beckett, Ronald C., University of Western Sydney, College of Law and Business, and School of Management. "Learning organisations in high technology industries." THESIS_CB_MAN_Beckett_R.xml, 2001. http://handle.uws.edu.au:8081/1959.7/299.
Full textAbstract:
This study describes an action research program, primarily within one company pursuing learning organisation concepts. The research was an integral part of the implication process, not involving case studies carried out after the event, or analysis prior to it, but an iterative mixture of both.Both the literature and case studies of various aspects of the operations of an Australian Aerospace company are used to help identify some particular practices that support organisational learning. A range of issues arising from the research are also discussed. A multi-faceted systems model of corporate memory is developed, and possible ways of obtaining leverage from that memory are discussed.The research identifies a number of competencies, processes and practices that need to be in place for organisational learning and knowledge management to be effective. It is suggested that a particular organisation may take many years to establish this portfolio of capabilities to the extent that they become the operating room.Doctor of Business Administration
5
Godoy, Marcelo. "The effective management of geological risk in long-term production scheduling of open pit mines ?" [St. Lucia, Qld.], 2002. http://www.library.uq.edu.au/pdfserve.php?image=thesisabs/absthe17184.pdf.
Full text
6
Stone, Jasper Daniël. "The development of a comprehensive, practical and integrated management method with specific reference to the South African mining industry." Pretoria : [s.n.], 2009. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-04082009-202730/.
Full text
7
Yerbury, Graham. "Economics and its role in strategy formation in the mining industry." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 1993. https://eprints.qut.edu.au/36393/1/36393_Yerbury_1993.pdf.
Full textAbstract:
Mining companies are large capital intensive enterprises that generally trade in the international commodity markets. The finite nature of resources and the need to maintain international competitiveness presents specific challenges to mining companies. This paper reviews the economics of mining and attempts to relate these to the strategic choices available to mining companies. To support this analysis, the work of major writers in strategic management is reviewed. The interrelationship between strategic management and economics is considered and a series of generic strategies for mining companies developed. These strategies are then compared with the actual behaviour of four major mining companies over the
past decade. This analysis supports the general propositions advanced in the review of both the economics of mining and the strategic management literature. It also identifies organisational issues that impact on the effective implementation of strategy.
8
Pendoley, Kellie Lee. "Sea turtles and the environmental management of industrial activities in North West Western Australia." Thesis, Pendoley, Kellie Lee (2005) Sea turtles and the environmental management of industrial activities in North West Western Australia. PhD thesis, Murdoch University, 2005. https://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/254/.
Full textAbstract:
The nesting demographics of sea turtles using beaches within the Barrow, Lowendal, Montebello (B-L-M) island complex on the North West Shelf of Western Australia were examined in the context of their spatial and temporal distribution and potential for exposure to industrially based artificial light sources. The distribution of overnight turtle tracks throughout the island complex confirmed high density nesting of Chelonia mydas (green turtles) on deep, sandy and high energy beaches and Natator depressus (flatback turtles) on deep, sandy and low energy beaches, while Eretmochelys imbricata (hawksbill turtle) tracks were most visible on shallow, sandy beaches adjacent to near shore coral reef habitat. The three species exhibited a summer nesting peak. Hawksbill turtles commenced nesting in September and continued through to January, green turtles commenced in November and decreased in March. Flatback turtles displayed the most constrained nesting season reported to date in Australia with 86% of the animals visits recorded in December and January only. Nesting population sizes estimated for the three species suggest that on a national scale the B-L-M complex is a moderately large green turtle and a large flatback rookery site. The hawksbill rookery is large on an international scale. While none of the green turtle nesting beaches fell within a 1.5 km radius of industrially based artificial light sources an estimated 42% of nesting flatback turtles and 12% of nesting hawksbill turtles were potentially exposed to these light sources.
Testing of green turtle and hawksbill hatchling response to different wavelengths of light indicate that hatchlings from the B-L-M region respond to low wavelength much like hatchlings tested in North America (Witherington 1992a). Flatback hatchlings displayed a similar preference for low wavelength light however their responses to discrete light wavelengths between 400 nm and 700 nm suggest that this species may not discriminate well between wavelengths that lie between 450 nm and 550 nm. This response may be related to the rapid attenuation of visible light that occurs in the turbid near shore habitats favoured by this species.
Field based arena studies carried out to investigate hatchling behaviour on nesting beaches with light types commonly used in industrial settings found green turtle and flatback hatchlings are significantly attracted to these lights compared to controls. Lights that emit strongly in the low wavelength range (i.e. metal halide and fluorescent) caused hatchling misorientation at lower intensities than the test light that emitted relatively poorly in this range (high pressure sodium vapour). Hawksbill hatchlings tested in situ under the influence of actual oil and gas onshore and offshore facility based lighting were disrupted from the most direct line to the ocean by these light emissions. Emergence fan mapping methods that measure hatchling orientation on nesting beaches were refined and are proposed as an alternative monitoring tool for use on beaches that are logistically difficult to access for large scale experimental orientation studies. The hatchling behaviour was clearly complicated by beach topography and moon phase.
Satellite tracking of post nesting female green and hawksbill turtles from North West Shelf rookeries has identified the Western Australian location of migratory corridors and foraging grounds for these species while Scott Reef turtles migrate from their south Timor Sea rookery to Northern Territory waters. Green turtle nesting on Barrow Island and Sandy Island (Scott Reef) forage at feeding grounds 200 - 1000 km from their nesting beaches. Hawksbill turtles nesting at Varanus Island and Rosemary Islands forage at locations 50 - 450 km from their nesting beaches. While all of the nesting beaches within the B-L-M island complex are protected under the Barrow-Montebello Marine Conservation Reserves, the only foraging ground similarly protected is the Northern Territory foraging ground used by Scott Reef green turtles. None of the foraging grounds used by North West Shelf green or hawksbill turtles is currently protected by conservation reserves.
9
Pendoley, Kellie Lee. "Sea turtles and the environmental management of industrial activities in North West Western Australia." Pendoley, Kellie Lee (2005) Sea turtles and the environmental management of industrial activities in North West Western Australia. PhD thesis, Murdoch University, 2005. http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/254/.
Full textAbstract:
The nesting demographics of sea turtles using beaches within the Barrow, Lowendal, Montebello (B-L-M) island complex on the North West Shelf of Western Australia were examined in the context of their spatial and temporal distribution and potential for exposure to industrially based artificial light sources. The distribution of overnight turtle tracks throughout the island complex confirmed high density nesting of Chelonia mydas (green turtles) on deep, sandy and high energy beaches and Natator depressus (flatback turtles) on deep, sandy and low energy beaches, while Eretmochelys imbricata (hawksbill turtle) tracks were most visible on shallow, sandy beaches adjacent to near shore coral reef habitat. The three species exhibited a summer nesting peak. Hawksbill turtles commenced nesting in September and continued through to January, green turtles commenced in November and decreased in March. Flatback turtles displayed the most constrained nesting season reported to date in Australia with 86% of the animals visits recorded in December and January only. Nesting population sizes estimated for the three species suggest that on a national scale the B-L-M complex is a moderately large green turtle and a large flatback rookery site. The hawksbill rookery is large on an international scale. While none of the green turtle nesting beaches fell within a 1.5 km radius of industrially based artificial light sources an estimated 42% of nesting flatback turtles and 12% of nesting hawksbill turtles were potentially exposed to these light sources.
Testing of green turtle and hawksbill hatchling response to different wavelengths of light indicate that hatchlings from the B-L-M region respond to low wavelength much like hatchlings tested in North America (Witherington 1992a). Flatback hatchlings displayed a similar preference for low wavelength light however their responses to discrete light wavelengths between 400 nm and 700 nm suggest that this species may not discriminate well between wavelengths that lie between 450 nm and 550 nm. This response may be related to the rapid attenuation of visible light that occurs in the turbid near shore habitats favoured by this species.
Field based arena studies carried out to investigate hatchling behaviour on nesting beaches with light types commonly used in industrial settings found green turtle and flatback hatchlings are significantly attracted to these lights compared to controls. Lights that emit strongly in the low wavelength range (i.e. metal halide and fluorescent) caused hatchling misorientation at lower intensities than the test light that emitted relatively poorly in this range (high pressure sodium vapour). Hawksbill hatchlings tested in situ under the influence of actual oil and gas onshore and offshore facility based lighting were disrupted from the most direct line to the ocean by these light emissions. Emergence fan mapping methods that measure hatchling orientation on nesting beaches were refined and are proposed as an alternative monitoring tool for use on beaches that are logistically difficult to access for large scale experimental orientation studies. The hatchling behaviour was clearly complicated by beach topography and moon phase.
Satellite tracking of post nesting female green and hawksbill turtles from North West Shelf rookeries has identified the Western Australian location of migratory corridors and foraging grounds for these species while Scott Reef turtles migrate from their south Timor Sea rookery to Northern Territory waters. Green turtle nesting on Barrow Island and Sandy Island (Scott Reef) forage at feeding grounds 200 - 1000 km from their nesting beaches. Hawksbill turtles nesting at Varanus Island and Rosemary Islands forage at locations 50 - 450 km from their nesting beaches. While all of the nesting beaches within the B-L-M island complex are protected under the Barrow-Montebello Marine Conservation Reserves, the only foraging ground similarly protected is the Northern Territory foraging ground used by Scott Reef green turtles. None of the foraging grounds used by North West Shelf green or hawksbill turtles is currently protected by conservation reserves.
10
Kaiser, Md Emrul. "Adoption of cloud computing in Australian agricultural industries." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2017. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/2011.
Full textAbstract:
The agricultural industry is integral to efforts of governments to feed an increasing world population. Its importance for the production of animals, plants, fibre, biofuel, has increased as climate change and other economic factors impact on food security.
Innovations in technologies and portable devices have made positive impacts in agriculture. Farm management software, precision agriculture, automatic power systems, GPS sensors, RFID and crop sensors are now widely used in agricultural production systems throughout the world. Portable devices are pervasive in all parts of society including the agricultural industry. Cloud computing has brought new opportunities in the agricultural industry to increase productivity by providing new approaches to process and store agricultural data acquired from the field to large datacentres. The adoption of this technology is dependent on agricultural industry stakeholders understanding of how this innovative technology could be best used in their agricultural and business practices.
The aim of this research is to investigate the factors determining the adoption of cloud computing (CC) in the agricultural industry in Australia. The research assessed the current understanding and usages of cloud computing in agricultural industry and examined the drivers and barriers in the adoption of the technology. A framework for the cloud computing adoption was also developed for an Australian agriculture context.
The research was carried out as a case study based approach using mixed methods methodology. It consists of a literature review, questionnaires, interviews and quantitative data collection. This study carried out a situational analysis for different agricultural companies to understand their current situation regarding their IT infrastructure. Questionnaires and interviews were conducted for data collection and analysis of the current situation. Both private and government agricultural companies were investigated for the study. A total of 250 Australian agricultural companies, farm associations, farm federations and small farms were invited to participate in this research. System integrators and cloud solution providers, ICT solutions providers as well as organisations which are involved in agriculture research were contacted to take part in the questionnaire and interview study. This research gathered and analysed data related to agencies infrastructure, service providers (both internal and external), computer systems, database, applications, existing or future cloud services. Various hypotheses were examined to understand the influence of cloud computing adoption factors in the Australian agricultural industry. The hypotheses were designed based on Technological, Organisational and Environmental (TOE) framework, Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) theory and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) which assist in determining positive or negative influence of the factor to adopt or reject new technology, particularly cloud computing in agriculture.
Based on findings of this research a framework was developed for the cloud computing adoption in Australian agricultural industry for both private and government sectors. Questionnaire and interview analysis revealed four major elements which influence the adoption of cloud computing in Australian agriculture. These included Organisational, People, Technological and Environmental elements. Each element included a list of crucial factors of cloud computing adoption. Considerations and suggestions regarding adoption were developed in the proposed framework.
The research provides further insight into the cloud computing adoption in the Australian agricultural industry context and provides strategies to private and government agricultural industries which will assist agricultural stakeholders to determine the best approaches its integration into current agricultural and business processes.
11
Stoll, J. A. E. "Mining in national parks : a case study : an integrated environmental evaluation of possible magnesite mining in Weetootla Gorge within the Gammon Ranges National Park, South Australia /." Title page, abstract and contents only, 1989. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09ENV/09envs875.pdf.
Full text
12
Wolkersdorfer, Christian. "Water management at abandoned flooded underground mines : fundamentals, tracer tests, modelling, water treatment /." Berlin [u.a.] : Springer, 2008. http://www.loc.gov/catdir/toc/fy0803/2007943146.html.
Full text
13
Navaratnam, Michelle. "The commercialisation of small firm technologies in Western Australia : A case for user-producer interaction and the integration of large industrial users with small technology producers." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 1999. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1216.
Full textAbstract:
The purpose of this study was to: * examine how grantee firms of the Western Australian Innovation Support Scheme (WAISS) have overcome their impediments to commercialisation; * examine how the process of user-producer interaction has enabled grantee firms to commercialise their technologies; * examine the process of user-producer interaction with large and/or small industrial users, and the subsequent benefits derived; * examine the entry barriers faced by grantee firms in forming interactions with large industrial users. The study examined the literature involving the role of small firms in the development and commercialisation of new technologies. The study adopted a multiple, holistic case study design using qualitative methodology, A theoretical pathway constructed from arguments presented within the literature was the basis upon which the cases were analysed. The cases have demonstrated that the adoption of strategies promoting user-producer interaction through a dyadic problem-solving style approach with industrial users have enabled small firms to commercialise their technologies in industry. The cases have found that those firms interacting with large industrial users have experienced extensive product diversification and market expansion opportunities as opposed to those firms interacting with small industrial users. In addition to the product diversification and market expansion opportunities acquired through interactions with these large industrial users, it was clear that the large-scale marketing and distribution resources of these industrial users also enabled small firms to attract other industrial users, both domestically and internationally. This ultimately led to further product diversification and market expansion opportunities. Those firms that interacted with small industrial users experienced either minimal or no product diversification and market expansion opportunities because of the ‘small firm’ characteristics or these users. This meant that as 'small firms' these industrial users also faced constraints with regards to the availability of marketing resources and distribution channels, and were therefore unable to attract the interests of industrial users within large-scale markets. Those firms that experienced either minimal or no product diversification and market expansion opportunities have faced entry barriers typical to small firms when trying to find large industrial users for their technologies. They have been unable to attract the interests of large industrial users as a result of the high risk factors associated with the newness of their technologies and their credibility as a newly established firm. The study's main finding reveals that the commercialisation of small firm technologies, the commercial extent derived for these technologies, and the overcoming of barriers faced by the small firm, was dependent on the social orientation of user-producer interaction in conjunction with the dyadic information exchanges of technological opportunities and user needs.
14
Lee, Chao-Ying. "An empirical study of the impact of human resource configurations and intellectual capital on organisational performance in the Australian biotechnology industry." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2008. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/237.
Full textAbstract:
The objective of this study is to examine the impact of human resource (HR) configurations (combinations) and intellectual capital (lC) in the Australian biotechnology industry. This study investigates how HR configurations facilitate the development of IC elements, which, in turn, enhance organisational performance. More specifically, it explores how HR configurations affect an organisation's level of IC; which IC elements contribute the most to the organisational perfomance; and whether innovation capital acts as a mediating variable between the three IC elements (human, organisational, and social capital) and organisational performance or whether it acts as an independent variable.
15
Roux, Marius T. "The application of supplier collaboration to mining equipment purchasing strategies in order to improve the value added to operations : a literature review." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/70659.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2007.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Purchasing strategies impact on the value added to operations by the items included in the specific purchasing strategy. In mechanised mining operations the mining equipment plays a significant role in the production process as it is the primary production tools. This study reviews literature on the application of buyer-supplier collaboration to purchasing strategies in order to improve the value added to operations and focus on mining equipment purchasing. Most authors agree that the origin of this type of relationship is the adoption of the production management concept of Just-in-Time. Models for buyer supplier collaboration include one dimensional models such as the Traditional and Advanced Supply Management model, Models on the automotive industry, and Supplier partnerships. The one dimensional models mainly compare traditional market type supplier relationships to advanced partnership or relational type relationships. The models reviewed also include multi-dimensional models such as the portfolio management models and the strategic supplier segmentation model. These multidimensional models propose the adoption of a variety of supplier management models based on certain contextual parameters relating to the purchase and expands on the one dimensional models. The benefits of buyer-supplier collaboration include reduced inventory, increased inventory turnover, reduced scrap, increased quality, reduced costs, improved delivery reliability, design and productivity, reductions in lead time, and additional effort from suppliers. The risks associated with buyer-supplier collaboration include significant resource requirements, lack of support from suppliers, shifting of inventory, industry type exclusivity, higher switching costs, and increase in supplier's power. Buyer-supplier collaboration has certain requirements to be successful. These include a fundamental change in the purchasing strategy relating to supplier selection criteria, number of sources and time horizon, multi-dimensional evaluations, a move to single-sourcing and long term relationships. The development of buyer-supplier collaboration is dependant on similarity in industry and technology, prior experiences change, effective communication and information sharing, and experiential learning. Other success factors include two-way information sharing, top management support, shared goals, early communication to suppliers of specification changes or new products, suppliers adding distinctive value, total quality management initiatives and Just-in-time initiatives. The models for buyer-supplier collaboration form the basis of most discussions on implementation. The main implementation guidelines reviewed include the implementation of operational links relating to design, logistics and quality. The more complete implementation models include the model for Five phases in the development and evolution of purchasing partnerships. The most complete models are the portfolio management models to supplier relationship management which includes contextual analysis as well as relationship analysis and implementation. Portfolio management models were found to be the most applicable to application in industries other than manufacturing. The final part of this study applies the theory to mining equipment purchases. The theory and application of buyer-supplier collaboration were developed for the manufacturing industry and therefore several issues arise in the application of these approaches in the mining industry. No significant literature was found relating to the application of buyer-supplier collaboration to mining equipment purchasing strategies. Applying the portfolio management approach to the mining equipment purchase and suppliers, reveals that mining equipment purchases are strategic in nature and buyer-supplier collaboration is the applicable management approach. Several areas of possible value add were identified and include acquisitions costs, replacement parts, efficiency and productivity of mining equipment. The initial review of the implementation of buyer-supplier collaboration at a mining operation reveals early performance improvements in terms of service levels. The review also indicates the existence of some of the risks associated with this type of relationship, mainly the shifting of inventory to the supplier.
16
Weddikkara, Chitra. "The impact of professional culture on dispute resolution in the building industries of Australia and Sri-Lanka." Thesis, Weddikkara, Chitra (2003) The impact of professional culture on dispute resolution in the building industries of Australia and Sri-Lanka. PhD thesis, Murdoch University, 2003. https://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/395/.
Full textAbstract:
The construction industry poses a number of challenges to those working in it. One important challenge is that the industry is dependent upon human interactions in the management of building projects. In this environment it is important for those who manage the projects to deal with intricate relationships and to consider the emotions, interactions and various types of reasoning that lie behind the actions and decisions taken by the participants in the construction process.
The issue for researchers is to gain a better understanding of the variables that affect the actions of the participants in this process. Such research demands sensitivity to the values, attitudes and behavior developed by the different occupational groupings. These factors according to Edgar Schein define the culture of a professional group. This research was conceived on the belief that the professionals in the construction industry brought to bear their own professional culture on the industry. It was necessary to have a better understanding of this culture in order to be able to resolve disputes that occur in the construction process.
That is the impact of culturally deternlined values, attitudes and behavior of these professional groups. Therefore, this research is aimed at investigating the professional cultures of the participants who come together in a construction project. The question posed was whether they shared a culture or had differences, and if differences existed whetherthese differences had an effect on the reactions of each of the groups to disputes and their resolution.
A survey was carried out among professional groups in Australia and Sri-Lanka and the survey data from both countries were analyzed using statistical tests. The results show that professional groups share similarities in professional culture as well as differences. It also showed that these cultural differences created an adversarial atmosphere among construction project participants. It was also found that introducing a party outside of the usual professional groups would be beneficial in the resolution process. Respondents were of the opinion that the third party outside of the construction team could be a lawyer.
This type of research is still new within the field of construction. The contributions of this work are to link professional culture and conflict and give some indication how such conflict could be addressed. In this context by identifying the values attitudes and behavior of professional groups the subject of conflict and disputes could be beneficially addressed through professional education.
17
Weddikkara, Chitra. "The impact of professional culture on dispute resolution in the building industries of Australia and Sri-Lanka." Weddikkara, Chitra (2003) The impact of professional culture on dispute resolution in the building industries of Australia and Sri-Lanka. PhD thesis, Murdoch University, 2003. http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/395/.
Full textAbstract:
The construction industry poses a number of challenges to those working in it. One important challenge is that the industry is dependent upon human interactions in the management of building projects. In this environment it is important for those who manage the projects to deal with intricate relationships and to consider the emotions, interactions and various types of reasoning that lie behind the actions and decisions taken by the participants in the construction process.
The issue for researchers is to gain a better understanding of the variables that affect the actions of the participants in this process. Such research demands sensitivity to the values, attitudes and behavior developed by the different occupational groupings. These factors according to Edgar Schein define the culture of a professional group. This research was conceived on the belief that the professionals in the construction industry brought to bear their own professional culture on the industry. It was necessary to have a better understanding of this culture in order to be able to resolve disputes that occur in the construction process.
That is the impact of culturally deternlined values, attitudes and behavior of these professional groups. Therefore, this research is aimed at investigating the professional cultures of the participants who come together in a construction project. The question posed was whether they shared a culture or had differences, and if differences existed whetherthese differences had an effect on the reactions of each of the groups to disputes and their resolution.
A survey was carried out among professional groups in Australia and Sri-Lanka and the survey data from both countries were analyzed using statistical tests. The results show that professional groups share similarities in professional culture as well as differences. It also showed that these cultural differences created an adversarial atmosphere among construction project participants. It was also found that introducing a party outside of the usual professional groups would be beneficial in the resolution process. Respondents were of the opinion that the third party outside of the construction team could be a lawyer.
This type of research is still new within the field of construction. The contributions of this work are to link professional culture and conflict and give some indication how such conflict could be addressed. In this context by identifying the values attitudes and behavior of professional groups the subject of conflict and disputes could be beneficially addressed through professional education.
18
Erasmus, Lourens J. "A model for evaluating risk in Africa : a mining perspective." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/5733.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MBA (Business Management))--Stellenbosch University, 2008.AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Suksesvolle eksplorasieprojekte en die daaropvolgende mynboubedrywighede kan as die stimulus dien vir ekonomiese groei in Suider Afrika deur middel van werkskepping, beter lewensomstandighede, en uiteindelik ekonomiese en polilieke stabilileit. Mynbou het die vermoe om dit te bewerkstellig. Die doel is om uiteindelik 'n langtermyn, veilige, vredevolle en vooruitstrewende oplossing vir die streek te vind, wat volgehoue groei gebaseer op 'n ekonomiese opbloei veroorsaak deur die implementering van suksesvolle mynbouprojekte en vooruitstrrewendheid tot gevolg het. Om dit reg te kry, is 'n deeglike en volledige studie betreffende alle moontlike risiko's, polities, ekonomies en sosiaal, wat sulke bedrywighede kan beinvloed, noodsaaklik. Ongelukkig ly die streek aan 'n gebrek aan buitelandse vaste investering as gevolg van burokrasie, politieke onstabiliteit en 'n onsekere veiligheidsituasie. Die hoof doel van hierdie studie is om 'n model daar te stel wat gebruik kan word om 'n voorlopige ontleding van 'n land se risikofaklore aangaande die algemene besigheids- en beleggingsklimaat te doen, soos gesien uit die oogpunt van beleggers in eksplorasie en mynbouprojekte. Angola en Zimbabwe, waar mynbou 'n groot rol kan speel, is geidentifiseer op die basis van die kwalitiet van hul mineraalafsettings en mynboupotensiaal. Deur gebruik te maak van die model wat in hierdie studie ontwikkel is waar gradering berus op 'Politieke', 'Finansiele', 'Sosiale Risiko', asook 'Eienaarsrisiko' onderskeidelik, gradeer Angola as 'n CBCB land met 'n matig stabiele omgewing om eksplorasie en mynbouprojekte van stapel te stuur. Dit is 'n land met uitgebreide minerale moontlikhede en alhoewel die infrastruktuur op hierdie stadium te kort skiet, het die land drie groot hawens. Geen groot bedreigings of destabiliserende faktore bestaan op die kort- tot medium termyn nie. Dit het die vermoe om tot 'n BBCB status oor die medium- tot lang termyn te beweeg. Zimbabwe verwerf 'n gradering van DDC+C, wat dui op 'n hoogs riskante omgewing om eksplorasie en mynbouprojekle van stapel te stuur. Niemand is seker wat die huidige verkiesing en die toekomstige politieke bedeling sal voortbring nie. Die huidige situasie kan amper net verbeter vir die land en sy mense met die moontlikheid van 'n regering van nasionale eenheid. Alhoewel die land dalk nog nie sy onderste draaipunt bereik het nie, kan 'n gradering van CC+C+C+ 'n moontlikheid oor die medium termyn wees, en selfs beter op die langtermyn. In 'n land met enorme minerale moontlikhede het die tyd aangebreek om te begin soek na geskikte gebiede vir eksplorasie doeleindes. Zimbabwe het die potensiaal om weer Afrika se kosmandjie te word met ondersteuning van die mynboukant. 'n Regverdige demokratiesverkose regering en baie harde werk, toewyding en deursettingsvermoe is nodig om uiteidelik te seevier. Laastens, die belangrikste deel van die risikobepaling van 'n land kom in die vorm van politieke risiko, en meer spesifiek, "leiersrisiko". Ongelukkig is die grootste struikelblok in langtermyn-vooruitskatting die feit dat die status quo vir die volgende dekade geldig kan bly, of amper oornag omvergegooi kan word. Dit kan weer lei tot 'n kettingreaksie reg deur al die sfere van die politieke en sosioekonomiese orde, binne en soms selfs buite die land in die vorm van binnelandse oproerigheid en buitelandse sanksies of ondersteuning. 'n Gevoel van dringendheid om te verander tot voordeel van almal, moet egter nog posvat. Die son wag nie vir Afrika nie.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Successful exploration projects and subsequent mining ventures can provide the stimulus for economic growth in Southern Africa through job creation, improved living conditions, and eventually economic and political stability. The aim is to ultimately ensure a long- term, safe, peaceful and prosperous solution for the region consisting of continuous growth and prosperity based upon an economic kickoff sparked by the implementation of successful mining projects. To achieve this, a thorough and comprehensive study of all possible risks, political, economic and social affecting such ventures is of the utmost importance. Unfortunately, the region suffers from a lack of foreign direct investment to make this happen largely as a result of bureaucracy, political instability and an uncertain security situation. The main aim of this study is to create a model for an initial risk analysis by analysing a country's risk factors relevant to the overall business and investment climate as perceived by investors in exploration and mining projects. Two countries, Angola and Zimbabwe, where mining can play a large role have been identified based on the quality of their mineral deposits and mining potential. Using the model developed in this research study where grading is based on 'Political', 'Financial (Transfer)', 'Social', and 'Ownership Risk' respectively, Angola rates a CBCB country with a moderately stable environment in which to launch exploration and mining ventures. It is a country with a vast mineral potential and although the support infrastructure is lacking at this stage, have three major ports. No major threats or destabilising factors exist in the near to medium terms. It has the ability to change to a BBCB status over the medium to long term. Zimbabwe receives a rating of DDC+C with a highly risky environment to launch exploration and mining ventures. No one is sure what the last election and the future political framework will bring. The current status can almost only improve for the country and its people with the possibility of a government of national unity. Although the country might not have reached the bottom turning point yet, a CC+C+C+ rating could be a possibility over the medium term and even better over the long term. In a country with enormous mineral potential, it is time to start scouting for promising regions for exploration purposes. Zimbabwe has the potential to again become the bread basket of Africa with backup from the mining industry. A proper democratically elected government and much hard work, commitment and dedication are necessary to be successful eventually. Finally, the most important/crucial part of measuring the risk associated with a country comes in the form of political risk and more precisely, sovereign risk. Unfortunately, and this is the main stumbling block in long-term forecasting, the status quo can continue for the next decade, or be turned upside down almost overnight. This in turn can lead to a chain reaction throughout all spheres of the political and socioeconomic standing, inside and outside the country in the form of domestic upheaval and foreign sanctions or support. A sense of urgency to change for the better still has to emerge though. The sun doesn't wait for Africa.
19
Silimi, Maimbo Mark. "Manager's perceptions of performance appraisal implemented at Kansanshi Mine, Zambia." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013037.
Full textAbstract:
As managers with direct contact with workers on the floor, line managers are responsible for implementation of the performance appraisal system at Kansanshi Mining plc. Commonly, implementation of performance appraisal is affected by how line managers interact with their subordinates before, during and after an appraisal interview. Notably, no study has been conducted at Kansanshi mine to understand how line managers conduct performance appraisals since their introduction. This qualitative study aims to build an understanding of how line managers at Kansanshi conduct performance appraisal interviews and what enablers and barriers they face in this process. In pursuit of the research aim, line managers from all the ten departments of the mine were considered as eligible for the study. Using stratified random sampling, ten of the 30 line managers from all ten departments across the mine site were selected. A total of fifteen semi-structured, in-depth, face-to-face interviews were conducted with ten line managers to gather data. These individual interviews were conducted on the mine site in the interviewees' offices as well as other convenient places such as the Kansanshi main boardroom. On average, each interview took between 45 to 60 minutes. All these interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and thereafter analyzed using open coding and constant comparison technique to induce themes. Findings of the study show a variety of barriers and enablers of line managers in their conduct of performance appraisal interviews at Kansanshi mine in Zambia. All ten line managers unanimously highlighted that (a) lack of clear job descriptions and set of individual targets as well as (b) lack of adequate refresher training on how to conduct performance appraisals affected how they conducted performance appraisals. Eight of the ten line managers highlighted that (c) perceived subjectivity of the system while seven of the ten highlighted that (d) predominant production focus and priority were barriers to them in how they conducted performance appraisals. On the other hand, ten line managers highlighted that (a) top management commitment to the implementation of a performance appraisal system, seven highlighted that (b) employees' hope for rewards and five line managers highlighted that (c) spring for career development and progression were perceived as enablers in their implementation of performance appraisals. This research is of value as it highlights how the conduct of performance is not only impacted by organizational support and other complementary organizational systems but also how the barriers to the conduct of performance appraisals affect both the appraisee and the appraiser.
20
Cohen, Gavin. "Equipment replacement decision making in the mining industry." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/52260.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2001.Some digitised pages may appear illegible due to the condition of the original hard copy
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The decision to make equipment replacements has a major influence on the competitiveness of any business. A company like Iscor recently spent approximately one billion Rand to modernise its fleet of equipment at various centres. This report presents a holistic approach to the issue of equipment replacement decision-making. It contends that equipment replacement decisions are not isolated incidents that occur by chance. In fact, the whole process is an integral part of the various processes in the business. This ranges from the influence on the strategy, through to issues such as production planning, maintenance, staffing, financial planning and so on. The role of the replacement decision in each of these elements are discussed and elaborated on. The report goes on to review the various models available in the industry and discusses their advantages and disadvantages. Thus ensuring a clear understanding of the differences in the approaches. The report attempted to propose a method that is relatively straight forward and in terms of application lends itself to the practical mining man. The proposed models are then used to complete a relatively simple example. The example was primarily aimed at showing the elements of the application and certainly not the full extent of the model.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die uitvoer van toerusting vervanging_sbesluite kan 'n dramatiese invloed op die mededingendheid van enige besigheid hê. 'n Maatskappy soos Iscor het onlangs 'n bedrag van ongeveer een biljoen Rand gespandeer om hul vloot van toerusting op verskeie sentrums te vervang. Die verslag stel 'n alles omvattende benadering tot die kwessie van toerusting vervangingsbesluitneming voor. Die verslag gaan voort om voor te stel dat die vervangingsbesluit nie iets is wat toevallig geneem moet word nie. Inteendeel dit is 'n integrale deel van al die verskeidenheid besigheidsprosesse. Die verslag bespreek die verskeidenheid modelle beskikbaar en brei uit oor die voor - en- nadele van elk. Die bespreking verseker dat die leser 'n duidelike beeld kry oor die toepaslikheid van die verskeie modelle. Dit gaan voort om 'n praktiese model voor te stel wat redelik maklik is om aan te wend. Die model word dan toegepas op 'n eenvoudige voorbeeld.
21
Chimuti, Shingirai. "Configural cue processing of project finance risks in the lending decision : an analysis of loan officers decision processes in mining project finance." Thesis, Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/14639.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MDF)--University of Stellenbosch, 2011.The continent of Africa is often recognised more for its problems and conflicts than for its successes. Blessed with an abundance of natural resources, the continent has also suffered from the ‘resource curse’ with many of its troubles directly linked to resource conflicts. Project-finance provides a unique opportunity for unlocking the continent’s resources by structuring arrangements which can allay investor concerns. This report contributes to the discourse on Africa’s development by unpacking some of the key issues which will enable and fast-track future investment on the continent. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate how subjective risk analysis and decision making affect risk-based lending. Tied to this was the examination of five risk categories and how these influence the decisions of project-finance loan officers. The particular focus of this study was in the mining sector. This study reviewed a comprehensive body of the literature which found that corruption and political risk were of great influence on lenders’ perception of risk. This study also reviewed the cognitive psychology literature in order to understand how decision makers process information cues. A quantitative method was then employed in order to understand how project-finance lenders respond to project-finance risk information cues. The results of the study were that, when considering mining projects in Africa, political and market risk have significant influence on the decisions of lenders. This finding confirms that there remain key issues which must be recognised and addressed if the continent is to generate and sustain long-term wealth.
22
Govender, Soobramoney. "Energy saving mechanisms in the mining industry : a case study of switching off non-essential power." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/843.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MBA (Business Management))--Stellenbosch University, 2008.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The world today is facing many energy challenges such as power outages experienced internationally and in South Africa. The demand for energy is constantly increasing and is creating environmental problems such as climate change, which is presently a major concern to society. This study is an attempt to establish how energy saving mechanisms such as the elimination of non-essential power can add economic value within the mining industry. This paper examines the effect of non-essential power and how it could assist companies to reduce their energy consumption, aid local power utilities in a crisis and maintain normal production levels. This research report was based on an investigation for power saving opportunities at a mining company during a power crisis. The paper looks at energy efficiency and the barriers to the adoption of energy savings. Companies in general do not have a structured way of addressing non-essential power saving. Companies are not aware of the value such initiatives could have on corporate responsibility and sustainable reporting. The benefits of energy efficiency and nonessential power on the triple bottom line are not clearly documented in literature. When comparing the impact of non-essential power on the triple bottom line, it became obvious that further research is required in order to prove whether it influences the social aspect. The impact of power generation on the global environment has not been clearly calculated and linked to the value of saving power. The literature review highlighted that companies are focusing on long-term initiatives instead of smaller initiatives, which requires less effort. During the investigation of the mining company, it was found that not much effort was made during the design stages in separating the electrical circuits from non-essential and essential power. The author concludes that switching off non-essential power held economic and environmental benefits for the mining company. The author therefore concludes that switching off non-essential power impacts positively on the economic and environmental part of the triple bottom line. It was found that the elimination of non-essential power is easy to implement with minimum investment and effort. Furthermore, the savings from these initiatives could easily be measured to calculate the return on the investment.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Ons kry deesdae al meer te doen met uitdagings soos internasionale en plaaslike kragonderbrekings in die energiebedryf. Die aanvraag vir energie verhoog deurlopend en veroorsaak omgewingsprobleme soos klimaatsveranderinge, wat ‘n groot bekommernis is vir die samelewing. In hierdie studie word gepoog om vas te stel hoe energie besparings meganismes soos die eliminering van nie-noodsaaklike krag ekonomiese waarde kan voeg tot die mynboubedryf. Die uitwerking wat nie-noodsaaklike krag het en hoe dit maatskappye kan help om kragverbruik te verlaag terwyl produksievlakke steeds gehandhaaf word, is hier ondersoek. Plaaslike kragvoorsieners kan ook baat vind hierby in krisistye. Hierdie navorsingsverslag is gebaseer op ‘n ondersoek van krag besparings geleenthede by ‘n mynmaatskappy gedurende ‘n krisistydperk van kragonderbrekings. Die verslag kyk na die doetreffendheid van energieverbruik, asook na die hindernisse wat ondervind word in die inwerkingstelling van energie besparings inisiatiewe. Maatskappye het in die algemeen nie ‘n gestruktureerde metode om die probleem rakende nie-noodsaaklike krag aan te spreek nie. Hulle is nie bewus van die nut wat sulke inisiatiewe kan hê op korporatiewe verantwoordelikheid en volhoubare verslaggewing nie. Die voordele wat energiebesparing en die eliminering van nie-noodsaaklike krag op die ekonomie, gemeenskap en omgewing het, word nie duidelik geboekstaaf nie. Verdere navorsing moet gedoen word om die impak van energiedoeltreffendheid en nie-noodsaaklike krag op die sosiale aspek te bewys. Die uitwerking wat kragopwekking op die globale omgewing het is nog nie bereken en verbind met die waarde daarvan op kragbesparing nie. Die verslag beklemtoon dat maatskappye fokus op langtermyn inisiatiewe in plaas daarvan om te kyk na kleiner inisiatiewe wat minder moeite en tyd sal verg. Die ondersoek by die mynmaatskappy het getoon dat daar nie klem geplaas is op die onderskeiding tussen nie-noodsaaklike en noodsaaklike krag met die installering van die elektriese stroombane tydens die ontwerpstadium nie. Daar is gevind dat die afskakeling van nie-noodsaaklike krag ekonomiese en omgewingsvoordele vir die maatskappy inhou. Daar is tot die slotsom gekom dat die afskakeling van nie-noodsaaklike krag in die algemeen dus ‘n voordelige uitwerking het op die ekonomie en omgewing. Dit is maklik om te implementeer met minimum moeite en belegging. Die besparings deur middel van hierdie inisiatiewe kan ook maklik gemeet word om die opbrengs op die belegging te bereken.
23
Harris, Mark Anglin. "Some organic amendments for heavy metal toxicity, acidity and soil structure in acid-sulphate mine tailings /." Title page, contents and abstract only, 2000. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09PH/09phh3148.pdf.
Full text
24
Naidoo, Anesan. "Determining the carbon footprint of Sishen South Mine and evaluating the carbon reduction opportunities in the opencast mining environment." Thesis, Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/6446.
Full text
25
Rampfumedzi, Londolani. "Retention strategy for miners and artisans at Tshikondeni Coal Mine." Thesis, Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/986.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MBA (Business Management))--University of Stellenbosch, 2009.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The retention of the right skills in any organisation or industry is always a challenge. There are many causes of the skills shortage and it is also difficult to retain skilled people once they have been found. The literature suggests that retention of skills should ideally be considered from the design and expectation of the requirements of the job through to the recruitment process; and not only once the employee has started working. The literature also explores the different retention strategies that can be applied, such as succession planning, employee engagement, work – life balance, remuneration structuring and career advancement path. This research is limited to Tshikondeni coal mine and attempts to establish which of the following are the biggest contributing factors that cause people to leave and resign from the mine: • Known life of the mine left is till 2014; • Remote location away from essential services; • Leadership; and • Remuneration. From the research that was done, it became clear that the limited life of the mine was the biggest contributing factor that would make employees want to leave Tshikondeni coal mine. Further study is recommended for organisations that operate with finite resources, and mostly in remote areas, to develop further specific retention strategies – over and above those challenges that face all other industries and organisations. This should be done so that the reality of finite resources can be addressed in order to keep employees motivated and energised until the last ton is extracted.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Dit is altyd ‘n uitdaging in enige organisasie of industrie om die regte vaardighede te behou. Daar is baie redes vir die tekort aan vaardighede en dit is moeilik om bekwame mense te behou wanneer hulle wel gevind word. Die literatuur raai aan dat die retensie van vaardighede reeds in die ontwerp van en vereistes vir ‘n betrekking in ag geneem moet word, sowel as tydens die werwingsproses en nie eers na indiensneming van die werknemer nie. Die literatuur ondersoek ook retensie strategië wat toegepas kan word, soos bv. opvolgbeplanning, werknemerbetrokkenheid, balans tussen werk en vrye tyd, vergoedingstrukture en moontlikhede vir bevordering. Hierdie navorsing is beperk tot Tshikondeni steenkoolmyn en poog om vas te stel watter van die volgende die grootste bydraende faktore is waarom mense bedank en weggaan by die myn: • Lewensduur van die myn slegs tot 2014; • Afgesonderde ligging weg van essensële dienste; • Leierskap; en • Vergoeding. Uit die navorsing wat gedoen is, het dit duidelik geword dat die beperkte lewensduur van die myn die grootste bydraende faktor was waarom werknemers wou weggaan van Tshikondeni steenkoolmyn. Verdere navorsing word aanbeveel vir organisasies wat met beperkte hulpbronne, en hoofsaaklik in afgeleë gebiede, werk om verdere spesifieke retensie strategieë te ontwikkel – bo en behalwe dié wat vir ander industrieë en organisasies geld. Hierdeur kan die realiteit van beperkte hulpbronne aangespreek word om sodoende die motivering en aansporing van werknemers te verseker totdat die laaste ton verwerk is.
26
Clifford, Susan Amanda. "The effects of fly-in/fly-out commute arrangements and extended working hours on the stress, lifestyle, relationships and health characteristics of Western Australian mining employees and their partners." University of Western Australia. School of Anatomy and Human Biology, 2010. http://theses.library.uwa.edu.au/adt-WU2010.0018.
Full textAbstract:
The Western Australian (WA) mining industry directly employs approximately 56,000 people. Almost half work Fly-in/Fly-out commute arrangements (FIFO, e.g. employees living in a city are flown to a remote worksite where they live and work during their work roster) and approximately half work more than 50 hours per week, on average. There are many anecdotal claims that FIFO has negative impacts on WA mining employees, leading to an elevated risk of high stress levels, depression, binge drinking, recreational drug use and relationship break-ups. Previous studies found FIFO can be stressful, and have negative impacts on WA employees 'and partners' lifestyles and relationships. This project investigated the long-term (Study One) and short-term (Study Two) impacts of FIFO and extended working hours on a representative sample of WA FIFO mining employees and partners. In Study One, a total of 222 FIFO and Daily Commute (DC) mining employees and partners completed an anonymous questionnaire investigating long-term impacts on work satisfaction, lifestyle, relationships and health. A subgroup of 32 Study One FIFO employees and partners also participated in Study Two; a detailed study of the short-term impacts of FIFO and extended working hours and how these impacts fluctuate in intensity during the mining roster. Study Two participants completed a diary and provided saliva samples each day throughout a complete mining roster. The main findings of the study were that FIFO and extended working hours had negative impacts on employees work satisfaction and FIFO was frequently reported to be disruptive to employees 'and partners' lifestyle, in the long-term. However, FIFO and extended working hours did not lead to poor quality relationships, high stress levels or poor health, on average in the long-term; there were generally no significant differences in these characteristics between FIFO and DC employees, or between the FIFO sample and the wider community. There were minor differences between FIFO and DC employees in long-term health characteristics, and Study One employees had similar, or in some cases poorer health outcomes than other community samples.
27
Devenin, Vera Verónica. "Responsabilidad social corporativa y producción de un espacio minero. Un análisis de 23 grandes yacimientos de cobre en el mundo (2006-2010), con énfasis en Chile y Australia." Doctoral thesis, Universitat de Barcelona, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10803/293043.
Full textAbstract:
El incremento significativo de proyectos mineros de las últimas décadas, particularmente en los países del Sur, ha puesto de relieve la magnitud de los impactos socio-ambientales que esta actividad conlleva. Ante esta evidencia, la industria minera, para alcanzar una licencia social para operar, ha desarrollado de forma sistemática programas de responsabilidad social corporativa en las comunidades cercanas a sus lugares de operación. Esta tesis aborda los efectos que éstas iniciativas tienen en el territorio en los que se llevan a cabo, postulando que la acción conjunta de los impactos socio-ambientales y de las acciones de responsabilidad social corporativa tienden a producir un espacio minero.
La aproximación teórica utilizada fue la producción del espacio de Henry Lefebvre, estableciendo que este espacio minero se constituye a partir de las transformaciones de la naturaleza, escenario base del espacio social; las prácticas espaciales, referido a los usos y relaciones dentro del espacio; y la representación del espacio, es decir, la conceptualización, los conocimientos y saberes que se aplican al espacio y a sus elementos.
La metodología utilizada para abordar la investigación fue una triangulación de métodos. Por una parte se realizó un análisis cualitativo de las acciones de responsabilidad social corporativa, que fuesen factibles de observar y de medir, correspondientes a 23 grandes yacimientos de cobre a nivel mundial para un periodo de cinco años, desde 2006 a 2010. Por otra parte, para contrarrestar la unilateralidad de los reportes de sustentabilidad, única fuente de información disponible acerca de las acciones de responsabilidad social corporativa, así como para enriquecer la interpretación de los datos, se realizó trabajo de campo. Éste consistió en observación y entrevistas semi-dirigidas a 48 personas pertenecientes a distintos ámbitos en torno a cuatro yacimientos de cobre en Chile y dos en Australia.
En términos de resultados, la tesis presenta, en primer lugar, una amplia descripción de las iniciativas de responsabilidad corporativa que llevan a cabo los grandes yacimientos mineros, en este caso de cobre, en el ámbito ambiental: agua, aire, biodiversidad, energía y suelo; así como en el ámbito social: deporte, cultura y recreación, educación, educación ambiental, empleo y desarrollo productivo, grupos en situación de mayor vulnerabilidad, influencia estratégica, participación de la comunidad, patrimonio arqueológico y cultural, promoción de la minería, salud, vivienda y urbanismo, y comunidades indígenas. Esta descripción incluye las dinámicas que se generan en las comunidades a partir tanto de los impactos de la minería como de las iniciativas de responsabilidad social corporativa descritas.
A partir de lo anterior, y basado en los postulados de Henry Lefebvre, la tesis propone la caracterización y el desarrollo del concepto de espacio minero, entendido éste como un espacio social dominado que contiene características identificables en múltiples contextos, que puede ser coherente o contradictorio, y cuyo radio de influencia se extiende a las comunidades adyacentes a la mina, al centro urbano más cercano capaz de entregarle servicios a la industria, hasta la zona de salida del producto minero, por lo general el puerto.
La tesis presenta además un análisis de las acciones de responsabilidad social corporativa en los casos en los que se realizó trabajo de campo, dando cuenta de las especificidades que adquiere en distintos contextos y escenarios espaciales.
A modo de conclusión, la tesis plantea que la responsabilidad social corporativa, en la medida que se encuentre acoplada a planes de desarrollo local, se puede constituir como un mecanismo efectivo para que las comunidades reciban beneficios de la industria minera. Por el contrario, en aquellos casos que no está acoplada a planes de desarrollo local, las tensiones que existen entre comunidad y minería tienden a mantenerse o incluso a intensificarse.The thesis considers that both the socio-environmental impact of mining and the actions of corporate social responsibility together produce a mining space. To develop this argument, the conceptual framework used was the production of the space by Henry Lefebvre, and a qualitative analysis was made of the actions of corporate social responsibility of 23 large copper mines in the world for a period of five years (2006-2010), as well as field work (observation and interviews) around six sites in Chile and Australia. The results of the thesis first of all present a broad description of the initiatives of corporate responsibility carried out by the large mining sites in the area of the environment (water, air, biodiversity, energy and soil) and in the social area (sport, culture and recreation, education, environmental education, employment and productive development, groups in a situation of greater vulnerability, strategic influence, community participation, archaeological and cultural heritage, promotion of mining, health, housing and urban development, and indigenous communities). This description includes the dynamics produced in the communities from both the impacts of mining and the described corporate social responsibility initiatives. Secondly, the thesis presents a characterisation of the mining space in terms of the transformations it implies in nature, the base scenario of the social space; the spatial practices, referring to the uses and relations within the space, and the representation of the space, in other words the conceptualization, the knowledge and wisdom applied to the space and to its elements. This characterization is used to develop the concept of mining space. Finally, the thesis presents the strategies of corporate social responsibility distinguishing between spatial scenarios by using the experience of the fieldwork. As a conclusion, the thesis considers that corporate social responsibility, being connected to local development plans, may be constituted as an effective mechanism for communities to receive benefits from the mining industry.
28
Lynn, Tristan. "An investigation into dust, gases and vapours expulsed during the oxidation of pyritic black shale, and their potential for impacting on employee health." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2014. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1197.
Full textAbstract:
Pyritic black shale (PBS) is occasionally extracted as a waste product of iron ore mining in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. Mineralogical studies such as Brocks, Summons, Buick, and Logan (2003) of the PBS located at Mount Tom Price Operations have established that PBS can contain elevated concentrations of pyrite, carbon, bitumens, polyaromatic hydrocarbons and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The natural oxidative weathering of PBS can cause exothermic reactions leading to the shale reaching temperatures that cause the expulsion of toxic gases such as hydrogen sulphide, sulphur dioxide, methane and carbon monoxide.
Current management of the potential hazards of PBS is based on limiting employees’ working time in PBS areas, using gas detection equipment and wearing respiratory protection for particulates and acid gases. This research investigates the potential risk of adverse health effects for employees working within PBS areas.
Three similar exposure groups (SEGs) have work activities located within pits that contain PBS. These groups are classified as: drill and blast; geologists/samplers; and heavy-mobile equipment operators. Historical exposure data for inhalable dust, respirable dust, respirable crystalline silica and toxic gases were obtained for each of the SEGs and analysed using the IHSTAT program. In order to identify what VOCs could potentially be released during the oxidation of PBS, thermal desorption tubes were used to collect positional air samples from burning PBS, and a laboratory trial was conducted where several PBS samples were taken from two waste dumps, crushed, milled and inserted into quartz tubes for thermal desorption. All thermal desorption tubes were heated to 340 °C and 500 °C and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) was conducted on the resultant gas samples (WIENV 31).
Particulate results show that the only non-conformance with the Safe Work Australia occupational exposure limits (OELs) occurred among heavy mobile equipment operators and their exposure to respirable crystalline silica. The estimated arithmetic mean exposure for the SEG was 0.043 mg/m³ and the estimated 95th percentile was 0.164 mg/m³ compared to the OEL of 0.1 mg/m³. The toxic gas data demonstrate that of the 64 days sampled, hydrogen sulphide exceeded the OEL on 1 day and the short-term exposure limit (STEL) was not exceeded. Sulphur dioxide levels exceeded the OEL on 8 days and on 4 of those days the STEL was also exceeded. All carbon dioxide results were within acceptable ranges. Thermal desorption data showed that benzene, toluene, heptane, cyclohexene, phenol, acetic acid, carbon disulfide and hexane could potentially be produced.
The identification of organic vapours indicates the possibility for adverse health impacts not previously considered. Sustained exposure to large quantities of these substances has the potential to produce chronic health effects in the form of cancers and nervous system damage. As a result, recommendations for mining operations in PBS pits are: to provide respiratory protection cartridges that protect against VOCs as well as toxic gases; to carry out sampling for these organic vapours to assess worker exposure; and to maintain existing control measures that limit employees’ exposure to PBS.
29
McLeod, Ashley. "The contribution of leadership behaviour in creating a safety conscious organisational culture : a case study of Anglo American mining operations." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/973.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MBA (Business Management))--Stellenbosch University, 2008.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: In the 20th century, many employees in the South African mining industry were involved in occupational accidents which either resulted in personal injury or had fatal consequences. Despite the introduction of numerous industrial safety programmes to prevent fatal incidents and minor injuries, the South African mining industry death toll remains consistently high, at approximately 200 employees per annum. The trend of employee injury and death continues unabated into the new millennium. This safety performance has been met with growing dissatisfaction in the ranks of government, worker unions, employees and business stakeholders. This dissatisfaction is directed at chief executives who are being blamed for the occupational accidents on their mines. There is now growing focus on the leadership of mining companies and how it contributes to shaping an organisational culture for improved safety performance. The researcher examines whether leadership is a key component in creating a safety conscious organisational culture, and uses literature studies and the Anglo American mining company as a practical case study to support the investigation. Anglo American, listed on the Johannesburg and London stock exchanges is the largest mining company in South Africa and also one in which many fatal injuries have occurred; providing an abundance of safety information. The researcher reviews previous literature studies and explains the journey Anglo American undertook to improve its safety performance since listing on the London Stock Exchange in 1999. The concepts of organisational culture, safety culture, leadership and organisational performance, are discussed from a theoretical and practical perspective using literature studies. These are then examined with the ultimate view of understanding their practical impact on organisational safety as espoused in the literature. The literature provides a broad framework on which to assess Anglo American's safety journey from 1999 to the end of 2007. This journey details the safety programmes and efforts employed by Anglo American to eliminate fatalities and injuries and also highlights the impact of the organisation's leadership on the safety performance of the company. It is concluded that the contribution of leadership is pivotal to establishing a safety-conscious organisational culture and that specific behaviours from executives, senior managers, middle managers, supervisors and workers are needed to develop an organisations safety culture for improved safety performance.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Gedurende die 20ste eeu was baie werkers in die Suid-Afrikaanse mynbedryf betrokke in beroepsverwante ongelukke wat tot persoonlike beserings of lewensverlies gelei het. Ten spyte van die instelling van veelvuldige beroeps-veiligheidsprogramme om noodlottige insidente en ander minder ernstige beserings te voorkom, bly die dodetal in die Suid-Afrikaanse mynbedryf konstant hoog, teen ongeveer 200 werkers per jaar. Hierdie tendens van dood en beserings onder werkers gaan ongetem voort tot in die nuwe millennium. Hierdie veiligheidsrekord word met toenemende ontevredenheid deur die regering, werkers-vakbonde, werkers en bedryfsinsethouers beskou. Hierdie ontevredenheid word gemik op uitvoerende bestuur, wie blameer word vir beroepsverwante ongelukke in hul myne. Daar word dus toenemend gefokus op die leierskap van mynmaatskappye en hoe dit bydra tot die skepping van 'n organisasiekultuur van verbeterde veiligheidsuitslae. Die navorser ondersoek die vraag of leierskap 'n kern komponent is in die daarstelling van 'n veiligheids-bewuste organisasiekultuur, en maak gebruik van literatuurstudies sowel as Anglo American mynmaatskappy as 'n praktiese gevallestudie om sy ondersoek te ondersteun. Anglo American is die grootste mynmaatskappy in Suid-Afrika en ook die een waar baie noodlottige ongelukke voorgekom het, en dus 'n groot bron van veiligheidsinligting kan voorsien. Die navorser hersien teoretiese literatuurstudies en verduidelik dan die optrede van Anglo American om sy veiligheidsrekords te verbeter sedert sy noteering op die Londonse Effektebeurs in 1999. Die konsep van organisasiekultuur, veiligheidskultuur, leierskap en organisasieprestasie, word bespreek vanuit 'n teoretiese en praktiese perspektief met behulp van literatuurstudies en hierdie word bestudeer met die uiteindelike doel om die praktiese impak daarvan in industrie te verstaan soos uiteengesit in die literatuur. Die literatuur voorsien 'n breë raamwerk waarteen Anglo American se veiligheidstog gemeet kan word vanaf 1999 tot einde 2007. Hierdie tog verskaf detail van hoe Anglo American veiligheidsprogramme gebruik het om noodlottigge ongelukke en beserings uit te skakel en beklemtoon ook die impak van die organisasie se leierskap op die veiligheidsrekord van die maatskappy. Die gevolgtrekking word gemaak dat die bydrae van leierskap kern is tot die daarstelling van 'n veiligheidsbewuste kultuur en dat spesifieke optredes van hoofbestuurders, seniorbestuurders, middelvlakbestuurders, opsieners en werkers nodig is om 'n veiligheidskultuur te bewerkstellig om veiligheid in maatskappye te verbeter.
30
Van, der Merwe J. O. "A description of the process followed by Tshikondeni Coal Mine to ensure a competent workforce." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/52076.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2001.Some digitised pages may appear illegible due to the condition of the original hard copy
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Successful organisations keep a well-balanced fit between their strategy, structure, processes, reward system and culture. Any significant change in any of the elements requires management to rethink and probably redesign the rest of the elements. Tshikondeni Coal Mine went through various changes the last few years. These changes were brought about by, amongst other things, a re-engineering project, production expansion and the appointment of new management A significant portion of the employees was newly appointed. Some of the older employees were appointed in other positions, or were required to do different work. Tshikondeni had to make sure that employees were equipped with the needed competency to do their job to the required standard and in a safe manner. The process started by ensuring that employees' medical profile fit that required by their jobs. They were also trained in identifying the hazards associated with their jobs and how to minimise exposure to risks. The gap between the competencies required for each job and that possessed by the job incumbent was identified. Training was designed to fill the identified gaps. Iscor management's annual salary increase is performance driven. The process of designing post profiles, competency documents and personal performance contracts is described. The link between the personal performance contract, the annual salary increase and the personal development plan is discussed. There is still no clear link between the annual salary increase of operational employees and their performance. Plans are in place to eventually reward all employees on a performance driven basis. The training section on Tshikondeni Mine was designed to support business objectives. It is also aligned with the trends experienced in modern training. The section, amongst other things, caters (through the use of an interactive multi media system) for the bulk of mining employees who can't read or write. All training information is kept on a central database. Employees must not only be able to do their job, but also willing or motivated to do it. Management created a work and home environment conducive towards motivated employees. A psychosocial study was done to. determine how employees and their families felt towards their environment. The results helped management to focus energy where problems were identified. Problems and pitfalls encountered during the process to ensure competency are discussed. The process followed by the mine is elucidated with modern trends, statements, remarks and suggestions found in literature.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Hoë prestasie organisasies se strategië, strukture, prosesse, vergoedingstelsels en kultuur is in balans met dit wat sukses voorskryf. Enige wesenlike verandering in enige van die elemente kan veroorsaak dat die res van die elemente herbesoek en moontlik herontwerp moet word. Tshikondeni Steenkoolmyn het groot veranderinge oor die afgelope aantal jare beleef. Hierdie veranderinge was onder andere veroorsaak deur en proses herontwerp, produksie uitbreiding en die aanstelling van nuwe bestuur. en Beduidende hoeveelheid van wernemers was nuut aangestel. Van die ouer werknemers was aangestel in nuwe poste of was verwag om nuwe take te verrig. Tshikondeni moes verseker dat werknemers toegerus was met die nodige bevoegdheid om die werk te kan doen volgens die verlangde standaard en op en veilige manier. Die proses was begin deur te verseker dat werknemers se persoonlike mediese profiel pas by die profiel benodig deur hulle poste. Hulle was opgelei in die identifisering van gevaar in hulle werksomgewing en hoe om die risiko van blootstelling aan die gevaar te minimeer. Die gaping tussen werknemers se bevoegdhede en dié verlang deur hulle poste was geïdentifiseer. Opleiding was ontwikkel om die gapings aan te spreek. Iscor Bestuur ontvang jaarliks enprestasie gebasseerde salaris verhoging. Die proses wat gevolg is met die ontwerp van pos profiele, bevoegdheidsdokumente en persoonlike prestasiekontrakte word beskryf. me verhouding tussen die persoonlike prestasie kontrak, die jaarlikse salaris aanpassing en die persoonlike ontwikkelingsplan word bespreek. Daar is tans nie en duidelike ooreenkoms tussen die jaarlikse salaris aanpassing wat bedryfspersoneel ontvang en hulle prestasievlakke nie. Iscor het wel planne in plek om uiteindelik aan alle werknemers In prestasie gebasseerde vergoeding te betaal. Die opleidingseksie op Tshikondeni is ontwerp om besigheidsdoelwitte te ondersteun. Dit is ook belyn met moderne neigings met betrekking tot opleiding. Die seksie bedien, onder andere die grootste gedeelte van mynbou werknemers wat nie kan lees en skryf nie (met behulp van In interaktiewe multi media stelsel). Alle opleidings inligting word gestoor op In sentrale databasis. Werknemers moet nie net in staat wees om hul werk te kan doen nie, maar moet ook gemotiveerd wees om die werk te wil doen. Bestuur streef daarna om In werk- en huis omgewing te skep wat werknemers motiveer. In Psigososiale studie is gedoen om te bepaal hoe dat wememers en hulle gesinne voel ten opsigte van hulle omgewing. Die resultate het gehelp om bestuur se aandag en energie te fokus om probleme op te los. Probleme en slaggate ondervind tydens die bevoegdheidsproses word bespreek. Die proses gevolg word toegelig met moderne neigings, stellings, opmerkings en voorstelle soos wat gevind word in die literatuur.
31
Orellana, Fuentes Claudia Alejandra. "L'évaluation comptable des réserves et ressources des entreprises de l'industrie extractive." Phd thesis, Université Paris Dauphine - Paris IX, 2014. http://tel.archives-ouvertes.fr/tel-01021539.
Full textAbstract:
Cette recherche apporte une contribution à la problématique de l'évaluation économique et comptable des actifs de réserves et de ressources de l'industrie extractive. Elle vise à répondre à la question suivante: Quelles sont les valeurs économiques des réserves et des ressources qui sont appréhendées par la comptabilité d'entreprise et quelles sont, en cas de choix entre plusieurs types de valeurs, les raisons de ces choix?Elle montre dans sa première partie qu'il n'existe qu'une correspondance partielle entre les valeurs économiques et les valeurs comptables, ce qui privilégie la théorie économique néoclassique. Elle montre dans sa deuxième partie que diverses méthodes comptables cohabitent au sein des six pays étudiés en considération des intérêts des entreprises majors et juniors de cette industrie. La troisième partie de la thèse analyse le processus de normalisation de l'IASB et souligne l'influence du pouvoir des majors et l'influence indirecte exercée par les juniors. Cette thèse s'inscrit dans le prolongement de la recherche en comptabilité critique.
32
Jia, Xinting. "Balancing convergence and divergence : governance in the resources sector in China and Australia." Thesis, 2007. https://vuir.vu.edu.au/29778/.
Full text
33
Bassett, Cameron. "Cloud computing and innovation: its viability, benefits, challenges and records management capabilities." Diss., 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/20149.
Full textAbstract:
This research investigated the potential benefits, risks and challenges, innovation properties and viability of cloud computing for records management on an Australian organisation within the mining software development sector. This research involved the use of a case study results analysis as well as a literature analysis. The literature analysis identified the ten potential benefits of cloud computing, as well as the ten risks and challenges associated with cloud computing. It further identified aspects, which needed to be addressed when adopting cloud computing in order to promote innovation within an organisation.
The case study analysis was compared against a literature review of ten potential benefits of cloud computing, as well as the ten risks and challenges associated with cloud computing. This was done in order to determine cloud computing’s viability for records management for Company X (The company in the case study). Cloud computing was found to be viable for Company X. However, there were certain aspects, which need to be discussed and clarified with the cloud service provider beforehand in order to mitigate possible risks and compliance issues. It is also recommended that a cloud service provider who complies with international standards, such as ISO 15489, be selected. The viability of cloud computing for organisations similar to Company X (mining software development) followed a related path. These organisations need to ensure that the service provider is compliant with laws in their local jurisdiction, such as Electronic Transactions Act 1999 (Australia, 2011:14-15), as well as laws where their data (in the cloud) may be hosted. The benefits, risks and challenges of records management and cloud computing are applicable to these similar organisations. However, mitigation of these risks needs to be discussed with a cloud service provider beforehand.
From an innovation perspective, cloud computing is able to promote innovation within an organisation, if certain antecedents are dealt with. Furthermore, if cloud computing is successfully adopted then it should promote innovation within organisations.Information Science
M. Inf.
34
Sisombat, Sommala. "Determinants of foreign direct investment in Laos : a case study of an Australian mining company." Thesis, 2007. https://vuir.vu.edu.au/30214/.
Full textAbstract:
Economic transition towards a market driven economy in the Lao People's Democratic
Republic (Lao PDR or Laos) began in 1986 and has attracted international attention
including the attention of Australia. This study investigates the trends, patterns and
determinants of Australian direct investment in Laos. Australia has played a significant
role in the development of the Lao economy through bilateral trade, direct investment and
foreign aid. The study outlines the contribution of foreign direct investment (FDI) flows
to Laos's socio-economic development. A key part of this study is a case study of an
Australian mining company with significant investments in Laos. The study investigates
the factors that have influenced the Australian corporate investor to undertake investment
in Laos. The study aims to provide a greater understanding of the factors that influence
FDI and the factors that may determine the future trends in such investment. The study
also assesses the effects of FDI laws and regulations on FDI flows to Laos. The study
sheds new light on the trends, patterns and determinants of Australian direct investment
in Laos.
35
De, Villiers Tielman J. "The role of outsourcing in the project house - mining house relationship." Thesis, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1732.
Full textAbstract:
M.Phil.The relationship between the Mining House / Owner and Project House can be spectacularly successful for both partners (and has resulted in the emergence of a few successful new project houses and plant operation companies all over the world), but can also be disastrous for both parties, if managed incorrectly. The main requirement for a successful relationship between a Mining- and Project House is that there must be something in it for both parties. This is not only measured in customer perception of value for money (Mining House) and profits by the Project House, but is also affected by mutual respect, the working relationship and the perception that both can profit from the relationship by the following activities: • Procurement of goods and services. • Providing assistance in absorbing and adopting process technologies. • Addressing environmental concerns like Environment Impact Assessment, HAZOP studies as well as disaster management plans. • A project management team who can ensure proper control and timely reporting to the financial institutions, ensuring there are no cost and time overruns. • Provide due diligence in order to assign proper value to the assets, business portfolios, brand equity, technology/product, etc. • For retrofits, revamps, technical/ energy audits, upgrading the processes / quality of product through minimal investment routes. • In ensuring all aspects of quality management right from the concept to commissioning stage, involving corporate commitment to the quality management process enabling the companies to follow good manufacturing practices. • To provide knowledge management services i.e. depth of knowledge rather than the breadth. Until recently, most Mining Houses locked outsourcing in the back room - using it to pass off unimportant functions and processes to competent specialists so that managers could focus on more critical activities and core business. This is all changing as outsourcing is increasingly making its way into executives' strategic toolkits. In other research studies [5; C; K; N] three types of outsourcing relationships have been identified namely conventional, collaborative and (business) transformational outsourcing. Mining Houses can use conventional outsourcing to generate cost efficiencies in support processes. Collaborative outsourcing is used both to upgrade business processes and to provide flexibility to respond to changing business needs. Business transformation outsourcing holds a higher standard and is a comprehensive approach to create both new capabilities and to use them to achieve a clear strategic objective.
36
De, Villiers Tielman J. "An integrated project team strategy in the South African mining and mineral commodity industry." Thesis, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1733.
Full textAbstract:
D.Ing.An integrated project team strategy (IPTS) does not start with a detailed list of performance measures, but with the appropriate mindset of what is in the interest of the project. The purpose of IPTS is to unite the core project participants (the 20% of project participants responsible for 80% of the impact on the project success) with a common goal, so that they focus on what is in the interest of the project and not on their company’s interest or local optimisation. Like a tripod, Integrated Project Team Strategies (IPTS) is based on three core principles - a common project incentive scheme, well-defined project success criteria and project control systems and procedures that focus on the project’s needs and do not entice local optimisation. The first leg of IPTS is that all the core project participants share in a common project incentive scheme, therefore their actions are focussed on the same target because it determines the size of their bonuses and incentives. Project success criteria are the second leg and represents the common project target. However, determining priorities in a project strategy is regularly done incorrectly with negative impact, therefore the project success and failure criteria must be well defined for all three areas namely project management, product and relationship success. This is essential for measuring the project success because it forms the basis for reporting progress the project wellbeing during the implementation phase as well as the “successful” outcome at project closure Traditional project control systems and metrics, which were used to measure the progress of the project, tend to measure progress in isolation because they do not consider the overall need of the project. Local optimisation in terms of for instance tons steel erected per hour occurs because that is how managers on the project are assessed, however, that is not in the interest of the project. Although conventional project strategies do not exclude integrated team performance evaluation, all their systems and procedures are based on the performance of a single project participant or division of a participant, thereby creating the ideal breeding ground for local optimization and moves the focus away from the overall project. When looking at some of the latest business publications like that of Eliyahu M. Goldratt (“The Goal”, “It is not luck” and the “Critical Chain”[9]) it is clear that IPTS biggest advantage is to eliminate local optimization encouraged by the more conventional project controls strategies. Because the way people are measured has such a big impact on their behaviour, project control systems and metrics are the third leg of the IPTS tripod. For these reasons, IPTS is a completely new game, which relies on deep commitment to provide a broad flexible framework for doing whatever is required in the current context to ensure project success. It is not about what happened since the deal was struck, nor who is actually responsible for it, but about the success of the project because all participants will reap the benefits of a successful project. In a sense, the demand emphasis for IPTS is shifting from a purely financial to a more strategic approach. In so doing, it is prompting more and more clients and managers into systematic re-examinations of their business models’ structures, efficiency and effectiveness for factors such as local optimization. Often stereotypically conservative and with a cultural bias for control, most clients and service providers in the South African mining and mineral commodity industry have been late and reluctant to let go of their control and associated local optimisation. However, the array of challenges confronting the industry makes control for control’s sake a costly indulgence, which cannot be afforded any longer Not only does IPTS have the ability to change lose-lose relationships to win-win relationships, but most importantly it has the ability to unite all the core project participants in a single integrated project team focusing on the same goals. A number of typical IPTS cases have been developed as part of the research and are included in this thesis as guidelines for the implementation of the research results. These cases were also evaluated practically by testing it during interviews with industry practitioners.
37
Bowling, Jill R. "Technology, welfare and intensive animal farming : case studies of the poultry and pig industries." Phd thesis, 1985. http://hdl.handle.net/1885/130320.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis examines the use of new technology in the post-war
Australian poultry and pig industries and the implications of this
technology for animal welfare. The literature on animal welfare and
technology adoption has been brought together using an organisations
perspective. It is argued that in order to understand why new
technology has been adopted it is necessary to examine the
organisations and institutions which influence farmer decision-making.
Farmers are constrained to varying degrees by the organisations and
institutions in their operational environment and as they have adopted
increasingly sophisticated technology developed off the farm they have
lost further control over decision-making. The theoretical framework
emphasises the interaction between farmers and organisations but also
takes account of the wider political economy and the role of
individuals. The separate chapters discuss the changes that have
occurred in the layer, broiler and pig industries.
The use of intensive technology has increased efficiency and
reduced uncertainty in the production process. Balanced against these
advantages are welfare disadvantages. Intensive technology has been
criticised by welfare groups who have put new pressures on farmers.
As a result farmers have been placed in a difficult situation: to
remain economically viable they have been forced to adopt new
technology yet at the same time they have been criticised for using
it.
Analysis focuses on the differing perspectives taken by the major
groups in the welfare debate in order to clarify their positions. The
determination of welfare is discussed with reference to the problems
involved in assessing optimum or even acceptable conditions.
There are a number of areas in which welfare and farm profits can
be improved together, and others where increased animal welfare will
incur higher costs. These will have to be met by the consumer, either
directly through higher prices or indirectly through subsidies to the
industries.
38
Bunzel, Dirk, University of Western Sydney, and Faculty of Business. "Real numbers, imaginary guests, and fantastic experiences : the Grand Seaside Hotel and the discursive construction of customer service." 2000. http://handle.uws.edu.au:8081/1959.7/27816.
Full textAbstract:
Based on a fourteen-month period of ethnographic research conducted in an Australian Coastal hotel, this thesis explores the issues of management in a flexible organization. Using a textual approach to the study of organizations, the thesis focusses on the customer service discourse, its constituents, and the processes of its symbolic (re-) production in the hotel studied. Using a variety of textual data-among them academic publications from authors as diverse as Foucault, Clegg, Haugaard, Ritzer and Castoriadis; various forms of fieldnotes; and detailed descriptions of ritual and ceremonial events - the thesis not only provides a vivid account of organizational life at the hotel, it also identifies aspects of the latter such as meetings, training and reward programmes, and customer response schemes, as disciplinary technologies applied to govern both employees and customers. Extending the considerations about the disciplinary qualities of the customer service discourse and linking them with the issues of new forms of control as recently debated in the larger field of organization studies, the thesis will identify the processes of imagination, normalization, and subjugation as central to the establishment of a new management doctrine: corporate culturism. This discussion will also reveal the essentially hybrid nature of control under this new doctrine and it will expose the process of managing meaning as fundamental to its constitution and endurance. Respectively, the thesis will identify the hotel studied as an organization that thrives on corporate culturism. As the thesis represents a contribution to the field of (organizational) ethnography, it will - by recurrently reflecting on some of the contemporary debates in the field- implicitly address status and practicability of empirical (ethnographic) research in a postmodern world.Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
39
Meid, Andreas. "An engineering management analysis of communication management systems in an organization that supplies the mining industry." Thesis, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13803.
Full textAbstract:
M.Ing. (Engineering Management)Broadly speaking, communication forms an integral component of everyone’s daily activities, be it on a personal level amongst family and friends, or in a professional environment. In many instances, the ability of project teams to communicate effectively and efficiently is taken for granted by project managers, which can result in projects being late or incomplete. However, the importance of Project Communications Management is evident in the fact that the Project Management Institute (PMI) dedicates a chapter to Project Communications Management in the PMBOK® Guide. The current research seeks to understand what effect communication has on a project, and how it can be successfully managed during a project. The research in the form of a case study investigated the state of communications within a project department, with the aim of identifying whether a lack of communication during a project is a contributing factor to projects being late or incorrect. The department in question is responsible for supplying the mining industry with critical conveyor drive equipment. The case study research was conducted utilizing the procedure outlined in the Organizational Project Management Maturity Model (OPM3®). The research found that certain areas in the department lacked the basic requirements for effective communications, and that a lack of communication between various stakeholders during a project could negatively influence the success of a project. These findings were compared to those of independent research by the PMI into global trends of project communications. The important aspects relating to Project Communication Management were discussed, and a workable solution to the problem was proposed. It was found that by implementing a communication plan in the department, and encouraging a culture of open and honest communications, the organization can expect to see an improvement in project success.
40
Buckham, Trevor. "The effects of centralized or decentralized bargaining processes in the management of industrial actions in the South African mining industry." Diss., 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/44461.
Full textAbstract:
Frequent and prolonged labour strike actions in the South African mining industry are widely acknowledged. These strikes continue to negatively impact on the socio-economic factors in the South African society and particularly the businesses. Studies have been conducted on the bargaining processes to ascertain proper engagement process to follow during conflict resolutions. However, the shortfall in these studies has been identification of appropriate models that reduces or totally eliminate the re-occurrence of frequent labour strikes. Understanding how the bargaining process, prior and during the bargaining process, can curb these labour strikes is therefore critical. Data from different bargaining experts were collated and analysed through a Delphi research tool. Results indicated that several steps need to be taken into accountant before and during the bargaining process. Such steps include continuous communication between stakeholders and the bargaining process’s leadership. While labour strikes are as a result of impasses, which inform strike actions, encountered during negotiations, results show that before impasses are encountered it is imperative to manage the bargaining processes prior the formal engagements. It was also established that the choice of the bargaining process i.e. choosing between centralization of decentralization of the bargaining process may not necessarily curb the frequency of strikes.Dissertation (MBA)--University of Pretoria, 2014.
zkgibs2015
Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS)
Unrestricted
41
Olsen, Lois Jeanne. "Plant-metal interactions in a natural and remediated high elevation metal-contaminated wetland." 2004. http://etd.lib.montana.edu/etd/2004/olsen/OlsenL04.pdf.
Full text
42
Lyaruu, Titus Michael. "Integrating records management into the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative in Tanzania." Thesis, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/27627.
Full textAbstract:
Efficient records management is a founding block for successful transparency and accountability initiatives. Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) promotes transparency and
accountable management of extractive resources by disclosing governments’ and extractive companies' value chain information in resource-rich countries. Without proper management of
records, transparency and accountability in the extractive industry become difficult. This study sought to explore the integration of records management in the Tanzania Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (TEITI) with the view to develop a framework for incorporating records management in such an initiative. This qualitative case study anchored on the interpretivism research paradigm used the researcher’s conceptual framework as a theoretical lens. The study
sample was purposively selected from the public institutions involved in TEITI, namely, TEITI Committee and the Secretariat, Mining Commission, Records and Archives Management Department, Tanzania Revenue Authority, and Regional Mines Office Dodoma. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, observation, and analysis of documents.
The study established that Tanzania has a well-established archives and records management infrastructure. However, institutions involved in TEITI did not implement the infrastructure or developed in-house procedures to incorporate records management in the initiative. Also, the non involvement of various players of the extractive sector in TEITI resulting in silos approaches to the initiative was noted. In addition, the studied institutions do not plan for their records management activities, and the budgets to support records management activities are inadequate. Records management staff are also insufficient, and their competencies to manage records mining activities is limited.
The study concludes that because of the failure to integrate records management in TEITI, the initiative will not succeed in releasing its goal of bringing about transparency and accountability in the extractive sector in Tanzania until deliberate efforts are taken to incorporate records management as a critical component of the initiative. The study proposes a framework upon which the TEITI Committee, institutions and governments can apply to integrate records management in the EITI. Overall, the study bridges the gap of a missed inclusion of records management in the EITI initiative by proposing a framework. A further study on the underlying factors deterring the integration of records management in the organisational business process of institutions involved in TEITI is proposed.Information Science
Ph. D. (Information Science)
43
Boake, Ian Gordon. "A strategy for electrical load management in the South African mining industry." Thesis, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2152.
Full textAbstract:
D.IngIt is every person’s social responsibility to ensure that electrical energy is used as efficiently as possible. This is as a result of the considerable fossil fuels that are currently required to generate electricity. These fuels are available in limited supply on Earth and result in air pollution when consumed in the electrical energy generation process. Moreover, as scarcity increases, not just in fuel reserves, but also in electricity infrastructure such as servitudes, generation capacity etc, the costs of electricity also rises. This then brings about an opportunity to reduce input costs if the electrical energy is utilized as efficiently as possible. This can however only be done by the application of a suitable strategy. This thesis develops an electrical load management (ELM) strategy which may be effective in reducing input costs, by reducing electrical energy costs. This strategy has it’s foundation in tried-and-tested ELM strategies (albeit called by other names such as demand-side management (DSM) and Energy Management (EM)) developed by the world’s foremost utility research organization called EPRI over a number of decades, thereby ensuring, to some extent, the success of the proposed strategy. The strategy has been tested, in its constituent parts, in a real world environment in the South African mining industry. The examples of the sub-elements that have been tested in the industry are the artificial neural network (ANN) for short-term forecasting; the statistical regression technique for short-term load forecasting; the analysis of the external factors affecting the electricity supply industry and also the comparison of electricity tariffs in the mining industry. The validity of the strategy is further enhanced by the involvement of Technology Managers within the mining industry which have been involved with ELM in the mining industry for a number of years. Their input was solicited via an in-depth survey which was conducted in this industry. This survey represents the ELM strategy currently in existence of: - 62 shafts or open pit operations, 44 process plants and 5 smelter operations. The largest mining groups in South Africa were involved in this survey so that this survey represents: amongst others, 40% of the gold mining industry, 62% of the platinum mining industry and 95% of the diamond mining industry. The collective experience represented by the survey is equivalent to 67 man-years in ELM in the mining industry. Electricity tariffs are the means by which benefits for electrical load management are obtained. It thus warranted an analysis of all the factors affecting the electricity tariffs and in particular the factors affecting the price of electricity. To this end the Electricity Supply Industry (ESI) was analyzed in-depth and proactively to identify the external factors which may affect the price of electricity. Production intrusions may not be tolerated in the mining industry and as these intrusions have been the major cause for abandoning such ELM strategies previously, an electrical load model with production correlation was developed in this research which affords production a very high priority in the ELM strategy. Moreover, this load model, which is a key element of the ELM strategy in this thesis, forecasts the electrical efficiency of a mine in the near future. The effect of this efficiency forecast is to give management a real-time and proactive tool by which to make decisions. This approach avoids potentially large inefficiencies on the overall mine load such as when the electrical efficiency was only checked at the end of each month. This model may be used either in real-time control mode or in simulation mode to test various ELM initiatives before they are implemented. The model has either a statistical-regression based load-forecasting algorithm or an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) load-forecasting algorithm at its core. The choice of which forecasting methodology is used is determined by the value of the Pearson’s rank correlation coefficient for a set of test data. The latest prevailing ELM technologies have also been incorporated into a matrix for easy identification. The matrix should assist with the implementation of this ELM strategy. Not all of the technologies found in the matrix result in control of the mining load for ELM initiatives such as: “peak-clipping”, “load-shifting” or “valley-filling”. Some of these technologies result in “conservation” of the electrical energy by the application of newer and more efficient techniques to perform the necessary activities found on a typical mine (drilling, ventilation, cooling etc.). A complete strategy for ELM in the South African mining industry is thus developed in this thesis which overcomes two of the most serious pitfalls associated with previous strategies. These pitfalls being, the inadequate focus on production in those strategies and also the lack of real-time, efficiency-forecasting of the overall mine load. The strategy also focuses the potential Electrical Load Manager on the key steps of this process, by means of an intuitive, step-by-step approach. It is grounded in the demand-side management (DSM) experiences of the past, enhanced by actual case studies of the sub-elements in the mining industry and has been ratified by the involvement of very experienced Technology Managers active in ELM in South African mining industry.
44
Madiba, Khaya. "The benefits of applying the results based management life-cycle approach to the crushing and screening process of Run of Mine." Thesis, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13805.
Full text
45
Stoll, J. A. E. (Julie-Ann E. ). "Mining in national parks : a case study--An integrated environmental evaluation of possible magnesite mining in Weetootla Gorge within the Gammon Ranges National Park, South Australia." 1989. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09ENV/09envs875.pdf.
Full text
46
"論明淸時代商、礦業的合伙制與伙計制 =: The hehuo zhi and the huoji zhi of commerce and mining during the period." 1987. http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5887629.
Full textAbstract:
游子安.手稿本, 複本影印手稿本.
Thesis (M.A.)--香港中文大學硏究院歷史學部.
Shou gao ben, fu ben ying yin shou gao ben.
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 274-298).
You Zi'an.
Thesis (M.A.)--Xianggang Zhong wen da xue yan jiu yuan li shi xue bu.
論文撮要 --- p.1
Chapter （一） --- 前言 --- p.3
Chapter （二） --- 合伙制與伙計制釋義
Chapter 1 --- 合伙經營的緣起 --- p.8
Chapter 2 --- 「伙計」涵義的演變 --- p.13
Chapter （三） --- 唐宋時代的合伙經營與商業管理 --- p.20
Chapter （四） --- 明清時代商業的合伙經營 --- p.31
Chapter 1 --- 明清時代的金融信用機構 --- p.32
Chapter 2 --- 明清時代的算術書、商業書與同本合約 --- p.52
Chapter 3 --- 明清時代商業的合伙制
Chapter (1) --- 轉運商與海上貿易商的合伙制 --- p.77
Chapter (2) --- 商業鋪坊的合伙制 --- p.98
Chapter 4 --- 從「高樸私鬻玉石案」看清代前期的合伙制與伙計制 --- p.113
Chapter 5 --- 小結 --- p.131
Chapter （五） --- 清代前期礦業的合伙經營 --- p.133
Chapter 1 --- 清代前期廣東冶鐵業的合伙經營 --- p.138
Chapter 2 --- 清代前期北京與山東媒窋的合伙經營 --- p.145
Chapter 3 --- 清代前期四川井鹽業的合伙經營 --- p.164
Chapter 4 --- 小結 --- p.174
Chapter （六） --- 明清時代商業的伙計制和商業管理 --- p.177
Chapter 1 --- 明清時代伙計／與掌計的分工及其專業才能 --- p.179
Chapter 2 --- 明清時代商業的管理階層──伙計與掌計 --- p.197
Chapter 3 --- 小結 --- p.217
Chapter （七） --- 清代前期礦業的管理方式 --- p.220
Chapter （八） --- 明清時代商、礦業合伙經營的分析 --- p.237
Chapter （九） --- 明清時代商、礦業管理的分析 --- p.261
Chapter （十） --- 結論 --- p.270
主要參考資料 --- p.274
47
Morrison, Rogan. "Environmental information systems a challenge to meet corporate environmental strategy in the South African mining industry." Thesis, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2032.
Full textAbstract:
M.Sc.South Africa is a country with huge developmental challenges. In Africa, it is one of the few countries that have really incorporated the concepts of the information society into the fundamental reconstruction and development process. Appropriate political commitment, policy frameworks and legislation have largely been established to provide the environment in which effective information management can develop and information can be made widely available for democratic management of the country (MacDevette, 1998). It is within this framework that the development of Environmental Information Systems (EISs) for industry is taking place. The mining industry is no exception. As one of South Africa’s largest employers and natural resources users, the mining industry through its activities creates numerous environmental impacts. These environmental impacts, together with relevant legislation, sustainability reporting and international environmental standards, require mining management to capture and analyse large quantities of environmental data. The management and analysis of such data and its transformation into information requires an active environmental management strategy. It is the aim of this thesis to determine how and possibly why an Environmental Information System (EIS) can influence environmental strategy in the mining industry. Furthermore, to ascertain if mine size played a role in determining environmental strategy through the implementation and use of an EIS. In order to answer this question an electronic survey was emailed to the environmental managers at all of the mines within South Africa’s geographical boundaries. The results of the survey indicated that larger mines place more emphasis on ensuring that EISs can meet corporate environmental requirements, by ensuring that the required environmental parameters of an effective EIS are in place. It was concluded that implementation and use of an effective environmental information system would help meet the challenge of corporate environmental strategy within the South African mining industry.
48
Herb, Stephan William. "Soil resource management - key to successful mine closure." Thesis, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4684.
Full textAbstract:
M.Sc.Coal mining is a mature industry and plays a vital part in the economy and development of South Africa. Coal mining however is a temporary use of land. Historically, when an ore body was exhausted, production ceased and mines were boarded up and abandoned. Today mine closure requires the return of land to a viable and sustainable post-mining land use but a number of challenges are associated with mine reclamation. One of the greatest challenges is the inability of mines in South Africa to return mined land to its pre-mining state or land capability. The minimization of loss of land use capability and equally soil resource is a key part in achieving success in mine reclamation. This study verifies and assesses the replaced soil depth and actual post-mining land capability at a surface coal mine in Mpumalanga province, according to the Chamber of Mines “Guidelines for the rehabilitation of mined land” (2007). Five of the seven reclaimed sites within the study area exceeded the planned land capability proportions determined during the pre-mining stage. A top soil balance done at the end of January 2010 however indicates that the available volume of soil resource at the mine will not suffice the amount needed to achieve the planned land capability in areas not yet reclaimed. It is suggested that the lack of an adequate soil monitoring and management strategy in the past, has led to the shortfall of the available soil resource at the mine. The soil monitoring and reconciliation strategy developed will hopefully assist mine managers and rehabilitation planners to prevent further soil loss at the mine.
49
Drake, Jessica Alanna. "Managing the mixing : assessing mine soils with enhanced small-scale variation as part of mine rehabilitation activities." Phd thesis, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/1885/109696.
Full textAbstract:
Small-scale variation (SSV) of mine soils is enhanced by stripping, mixing and stockpiling of materials. Soils with enhanced variation are difficult to assess, causing misleading results that indirectly affects mine rehabilitation outcomes. This thesis aims to determine if standard soil chemical and biological methods are applicable in the assessment of enhanced SSV mine soils from Barrick (Cowal) Gold mine. Mine soils are firstly discussed in context of rehabilitation. Rehabilitating mine sites involves ecosystem engineering, in which landscape, function, structure and composition are essential ecosystem features. Using these features, a framework for planning, implementing and monitoring for ecosystem engineering was developed. The issue of SSV in mine soils was reviewed in the literature. It was determined that SSV directly and indirectly influences mine rehabilitation outcomes. The development of sampling strategies, alternative analytical and statistical methods, and standard guidelines are required for reliable assessment of mine soils. Nineteen topsoil stockpiles at Cowal were sampled for characterisation, with sample numbers proportional to stockpile size. Electrical conductivity (EC), exchangeable cations, cation exchange capacity (CEC), total carbon (TC), nitrogen (TN), sulphur (TS), nitrate-N, ammonium-N and Colwell phosphorus (P) were analysed. The soils require stabilisation and amendments for successful revegetation. Variation in exchangeable cations, TC and TN indicate soil management may cause variation in the stockpiles. Lack of matching pre- and post-mine surveys resulted in inconclusive causes of variation. Standard organic (wood mulch and compost) and inorganic (gypsum) amendments were used in the rehabilitation of a heterogeneous mine soil. This was undertaken as a 32-week laboratory (biological) and 72-week glasshouse (chemical characteristics and plants) study. The wood mulch increased C:N, C:P, C:S, respiration and moisture, which positively influenced revegetation. Gypsum had no significant impact on revegetation. Compost, however, increased all nutrients measured and decreased C:N, C:P and C:S. The low C:N:P:S ratios resulted in poorer revegetation. Coefficients of variation (CVs) were greater than 30% for microbiological biomass carbon (MBC), EC and nitrate-N (NO3-). The high variation in EC was related to gypsum application. The variation for MBC and NO3- was probably due to underlying enhanced SSV and inconsistent interferences in methods. TC, TN, TP, TS, respiration, water-P, bicarbonate-P, EC, pH, and moisture were demonstrated to be precise and accurate indicators for the assessment of mine soils. Large CVs in the standard salicylate Berthelot reaction for ammonium-N were investigated. Gypsum and enhanced variation of the soil cause inconsistent interferences. Pre-treatment by steam distillation is recommended. The anion exchange membrane method for measuring P (AEM-P) was assessed along with a range of low ionic solutions (LIS) to limit the variability associated with mine soils. Deionised water and NH4F with AEMs are precise for a range of mine soils. This thesis identifies DI AEM-P, WP, TC, TN, TP, TS, pH, EC and respiration as accurate and precise approaches for the assessment of mine soils. Nitrate-N, ammonium-N and MBC methods are not accurate, nor precise. There is a need to standardise analytical and statistical methods, and survey techniques for mine soils.
50
Nkosi, Mfundo S. "A study into the effect of human error on substandard maintenance performance, and the formulation of a complete solution based on the experience of successful maintenance organisations." Thesis, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/14975.
Full textAbstract:
M.Phil. (Mechanical Engineering)The coal mining industry plays a major role in the global economy. Coal is required for the provision of primary energy needs, generation of electricity and production of steel. Hence, there is a high demand of coal worldwide. For the continuous supply of coal, mining equipment should be in good working conditions and the maintenance teams should be highly equipped and motivated to perform their maintenance activities ...