The operations management function takes cognisance of clients’ needs and continuously formulates its management strategies and objectives strengthens and expands customer base and competitiveness.

 

MODULE NAME:

MODULE CODE:

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 1B

BMNG5112

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 1B

BMNG5112d

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 1B

BMNG5112p

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 1B

BMNG5112e

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 1B

BMNG5112f

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 1B

BMNG5112w

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 1B

BMNG5122

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 1B

BMNG5122w

SLP: BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 1B

BMNB020

ASSESSMENT TYPE: ASSIGNMENT 1 (PAPER ONLY) 

TOTAL MARK ALLOCATION: 100 MARKS

TOTAL HOURS: 10 HOURS

By submitting this assignment, you acknowledge that you have read and understood all the rules as per the terms in the registration contract, in particular the assignment and assessment rules in The IIE Assessment Strategy and Policy (IIE009), the intellectual integrity and plagiarism rules in the Intellectual Integrity Policy (IIE023), as well as any rules and regulations published in the student portal.

INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. No material may be copied from original sources, even if referenced correctly, unless it is a direct quote indicated with quotation marks. No more than 10% of the assignment may consist of direct quotes.
  2. Any assignment with a similarity index of more than 25% will be scrutinised for plagiarism. Please ensure you attach an originality report to your assignment if required.
  3. Make a copy of your assignment before handing it in.
  4. Assignments must be typed unless otherwise specified.
  5. All work must be adequately and correctly referenced.
  6. Begin each section on a new page.
  7. Follow all instructions on the assignment cover sheet.
  8. This is an individual assignment – no group assignments will be accepted.
  9. Pay careful attention to word count. Do NOT exceed the word count stipulated on each task, failure to adhere to word count limit/s will result in work being unmarked, as content provided after the respective threshold will not be considered.

Referencing Rubric                                                                                                                                                                               Providing evidence based on valid and referenced academic sources is a fundamental educational principle and the cornerstone of high- quality academic work. Hence, The IIE considers it essential to develop the referencing skills of our students in our commitment to achieve high academic standards. Part of achieving these high standards is referencing in a way that is consistent, technically correct and congruent. This is not plagiarism, which is handled differently.Poor quality formatting in your referencing will result in a penalty of a maximum of ten percent being deducted from the mark awarded, according to the following guidelines. Please note, however, that evidence of plagiarism in the form of copied or uncited work (not referenced), absent reference lists, or exceptionally poor referencing, may result in action being taken in accordance with The IIE’s Intellectual Integrity Policy (0023).

Markers are required to provide feedback to students by indicating (circling/underlining) the information that best describes the student’s work.

Minor technical referencing errors: 5% deduction from the overall mark the student’s work contains five or more errors listed in the minor errors column in the table below.

Major technical referencing errors: 10% deduction from the overall mark the student’s work contains five or more errors listed in the major errors column in the table below.

If both minor and major errors are indicated, then 10% only (and not 5% or 15%) is deducted from the overall mark. The examples provided below are not exhaustive but are provided to illustrate the error.

Required:

Technically correct referencing style

Minor errors

in technical correctness of referencing style

Deduct 5% from mark awarded

Majorerrors

In technical correctness of referencing style

Deduct 10% from mark awarded

Consistency

The same referencing format has been used for all in-text references and in the bibliography/reference list.

Minor inconsistencies.

The referencing style is generally consistent, but there are one or two changes in the format of in-text referencing and/or in the bibliography. For example, page numbers for direct quotes (in-text) have been provided for one source, but not in another instance.

Two book chapters (bibliography) have been referenced in the bibliography in two

different formats.

Major inconsistencies.

Poor and inconsistent referencing style used in-text and/or in the bibliography/ reference list.

Multiple formats for the same type of referencing have been used.

For example, the format for direct quotes (in-text) and/or book chapters (bibliography/ reference list) is different across multiple instances.

Technical correctness

 

Referencing format is technically correct throughout the submission.

 

 

Position of the reference: a reference is directly associated with every concept or idea.

 

For example, quotation marks, page numbers, years, etc. are applied correctly, sources in the bibliography/reference list are correctly presented.

Generally, technically correct with some minor errors.

The correct referencing format has been consistently used, but there are one or two errors.

Concepts and ideas are typically referenced, but a reference is missing from one small section of the work. Position of the references: references are only given at the beginning or end of every paragraph.

For example, the student has incorrectly presented direct quotes (in-text) and/or book chapters (bibliography/reference list).

Technically incorrect.

The referencing format is incorrect. Concepts and ideas are typically referenced, but a reference is missing from small sections of the work.

 

Position of the references: references are only given at the beginning or end of large sections of work.

For example, incorrect author information is provided, no year of publication is provided, quotation marks and/or page numbers for direct quotes missing, page numbers are provided for paraphrased material, the incorrect punctuation is used (in-text); the bibliography/reference list is not in alphabetical order, the incorrect format for a book chapter/journal article is used, information is missing e.g. no place of publication had been provided (bibliography); repeated sources on the

reference list.

Congruence between in-text referencing and bibliography/reference list

 

All sources are accurately reflected and are all accurately included in the bibliography/reference list.

Generally, congruence between the in-text referencing and the bibliography/ reference list with one or two errors.

There is largely a match between the sources presented in-text and the bibliography.

For example, a source appears in the text,

but not in the bibliography/reference list or vice versa.

A lack of congruence between the in-text referencing and the bibliography.

No relationship/several incongruencies between the in-text referencing and the bibliography/reference list.

For example, sources are included in-text, but not in the bibliography and vice versa,

a link, rather than the actual reference is provided in the bibliography.

In summary: the recording of references is accurate and complete.

In summary, at least 80% of the sources

are correctly reflected and included in a reference list.

In summary, at least 60% of the sources

are incorrectly reflected and/or not included in reference list.

Overall Feedback about the consistency, technical correctness and congruence between in-text referencing and bibliography: 

Read the case study provide and answer the questions that follow.

 

Beginner’s Guide to Uber

All about how the ride-sharing service works

Since its launch in 2012, Uber has become the most recognized alternative to traditional taxi cabs. Uber is available in more than 700 cities around the world, and this number will only increase.

Whether you`re traveling to Seattle, Dubai, Tokyo, London, Paris, Montreal, Chicago, or another major metro centre, you can expect Uber rides to be available.

Uber Facts

Uber is not a taxi service. Drivers cannot pick up riders off the street. Instead, Uber is a car-for-hire service that relies on smartphone technology to dispatch drivers and manage fees. Also unlike taxi services, Uber drivers do not possess special licenses; rather, they use their personal vehicles to offer discounted fare rides. Uber’s smartphone app takes care of the entire ride-hailing and payment process. Use your credit or debit card to pay right in the app, with no need for cash.

You must be 18 years or older to have an Uber account and use the service. In the United States, Uber drivers must be at least 21 years old, have at least one year of licensed driving experience, and drive an acceptable four-door vehicle. Uber is designed so that the rider doesn’t need to carry cash. However, you can tip with cash if you prefer not to add the tip via the app.

How Uber Works

Uber is intended to be easier than using a taxi. Here`s how the Uber process works.

BEFORE USING UBER

Install the app on your smartphone and create an online Uber account. You’ll provide information about the credit card you plan to use to pay for rides, so you never need to bring or handle any cash.

WHEN YOU NEED A RIDE

When you need a ride, use the app to tell Uber your pickup location. You can choose from a variety of ride-type options; the most common is UberX. Alternately, you can select Uber Pool if you are willing to share the ride and save some money. (More on Uber ride tiers below.)

Uber will locate drivers in your area, find a driver for you, and tell you how many minutes away your

driver is. Rides are commonly 3 to 10 minutes away in major centres. Uber will alert you when the

ride has arrived. The Uber app will show you the driver’s details, such as name, photo, and type of car so you know what to look for.

DURING AND AFTER THE RIDE

Enjoy your ride. The app handles payment so just step out of the car when you arrive at your destination and thank your driver. You’ll be asked via the app to rate your driver on a scale of 1 to 5 (politeness, safety, cleanliness). Similarly, the driver rates you from 1 to 5 (politeness). You have the option of adding a tip.

The entire trip is tracked through the Uber app for accountability and ease.

Why People Love Uber

Uber’s appeal revolves around the trifecta of price, quality, and convenience.

PRICE

Taxicab drivers hate Uber because Uber undercuts their fees by up to 50 percent, but this, of course, is one reason riders love using Uber. Plus, Uber drivers don’t require tips and can’t pressure you for them; as mentioned, you can add them later in the app. Taxi drivers, on the other hand, typically expect at least a 15 percent tip at the time of payment. You can also use Uber Pass, which is essentially a subscription to Uber that gives you discounted rides.

Bear in mind, however, that Uber does impose surge pricing for peak events such as major sporting matches, holidays like New Year’s Eve, and even busy weekend evenings. Fees can climb significantly for a few hours. As a rule, though, Uber rides are still cheaper than taxi cabs.

QUALITY

Uber cars tend to be cleaner, newer, and better smelling than many taxis. The accountability built into the Uber app motivates drivers to keep their cars in good shape. Because Uber drivers are rated by every passenger every day, there is the incentive to be both prompt and safe.

 

CONVENIENCE

The payment process is easy and stress-free. Likewise, the app frees you from the often-frustrating process of hailing a cab. The ability to handle all these details right from your phone saves time and aggravation (and keeps company and driver overhead low).

Because Uber is attractive for drivers to join, the number of available drivers usually results in very fast response times. While this certainly does vary, the typical Uber rider gets a pickup within three to 10 minutes of hailing, while taxis can take 30 to 45 minutes after being called. 

Service Tiers

Uber offers a range of service tiers, spanning from single riders and groups up to executive limo services. UberX is the cheapest and most commonly used form of Uber. Vehicles are ordinary, four- door models that fit up to four riders. Fares are about half the price of taxis in major cities. Uber Pool, offered in some cities, allows you to share your ride with another person and split the cost.

UberXL can accommodate six passengers, using an SUV or minivan; it’s more expensive than UberX. Uber Comfort is for riders who are constantly on the go and want a little extra comfort. Uber Select is a premium ride in a high-end car.Uber’s highest-tier services include Uber Black, luxury rides with professional drivers, and Uber Black SUV, which offers luxury rides for six people.

In some cities, Uber even offers Uber Espanola for Spanish-speaking riders, Uber Assist if a rider needs extra help, and Uber Wav for wheelchair-accessible rides.

Driver and Passenger Ratings

Part of Uber’s appeal is that drivers are under tremendous pressure to deliver pleasant, safe, prompt, and clean experiences for passengers. Every passenger rates every driver on every trip, and drivers are required to maintain an average customer rating of 4.6 out of 5.0. (Minimums vary by city.) Uber deactivates drivers who fall below this standard.

Uber does not disclose this to passengers directly, but every driver gets to see your rating when deciding whether to pick you up. And yes, every driver rates you right after you leave the Uber vehicle at the drop-off point. This is to protect future drivers from having to deal with rude, violent, aggressive, and drunk/impaired passengers. If your rating is too low, Uber can bar you from using the service temporarily or permanently. To encourage kinder, gentler Uber rider behaviour (stop slamming doors!), the app displays rider ratings right underneath names in the Uber app’s menu.

Becoming an Uber Driver

In large cities, taxi cab drivers pay $500 to $1,200 per month to their parent companies and municipalities. This cost includes dispatch and administration services and any additional fees the taxi company chooses to levy on its drivers.

Uber does not charge any of these monthly fees to its drivers, making Uber very attractive for amateur drivers. Uber requires that drivers:

  • Are at least 21 years old.
  • Have at least one year of licensed driving experience (three if you are less than 23 years old).
  • Possess a clean driving record.
  • Have no criminal record.
  • Drive an insured car that is less than 15 years old.

Your car must:

  • Have a clean title (not salvaged, reconstructed, or rebuilt).
  • Not be a rental, unless it`s from an approved Uber lender.
  • Not have damage, missing pieces, commercial branding, or taxi signage.

Uber will confirm all these details with the appropriate authorities. Uber will also do a background check, looking for serious infractions such as excessive speeding, driving while intoxicated, sex crimes, and other criminal offenses.

In short, if you’re an honest person, safe driver, and reliable worker with a newer four-door car, you can be an Uber driver within two weeks or so.

Happy Ubering

Uber’s success has spawned other, similar services such as Lyft, Curb, and Sidecar, but Uber remains the most popular. In fact, Uber is so common that expressions such as “getting an Uber” and “Ubering” in various languages have become commonplace.

Source: Gil, P. 2019. Beginner’s guide to Uber: All about how the ride-sharing service works. Lifewire. 11 November 2019. [Online] Available at: https://www.lifewire.com/how-does-uber-work- 3862752 [Accessed 15 January 2020].

Additional reading:

Question 1                                                                                                                (Marks: 50)

Q.1.1

The operations management function takes cognisance of clients’ needs and continuously formulates its management strategies and objectives strengthens and expands customer base and competitiveness.

With reference to the Uber case study presented above, discuss any five of the six main elements which forms part of customer needs.

NB: Your answer should be a minimum of 500 to a maximum of 650 words. Markers are to stop marking after the threshold of 650 words has been reached. Please indicate the word count at the end your answer.

(15)

Q.1.2

 

 

 

Q.1.2.1

Briefly discuss four different types of performance standards available to Uber and provide examples to support your answer.

 

NB: Additional research is required in order to successfully answer this question.

(12)

 

Q.1.2.2

Recommend to Uber one of these performance standards which you

think is most suitable for their service. Justify your recommendation.

(4)

Q.1.3

 

 

 

Q.1.3.1

Differentiate between job description and job specification and provide

examples to support your discussion.

(8)

 

Q.1.3.2

Identify the job specification for an Uber driver in South Africa from the

case study.

(4)

Q.1.4

 

 

 

Q.1.4.1

Discuss the purpose of a performance appraisal.

(2)

 

Q.1.4.2

Provide evidence from the case study on how Uber drivers are

appraised.

(2)

 


Q.1.4.3

Define the 360˚ system approach of appraising employee performance

and justify whether the Uber appraisal method adheres to a 360˚ system approach of appraising employee performance.

(3)

Question 2                                                                                                                (Marks: 25)

Dlamini & Sons is a manufacturing company in the Limpopo province. Their factory manufactures 750 ml glass bottles and is one of Coca Cola South Africa’s regional suppliers. Their statement of financial position is provided hereunder.

 

 

2018

2019

 

 

Sales price per unit

R9

R10

 

 

Variable cost per unit

R3

R5

 

 

Fixed cost (FC) per annum

R785 000

R890 500

 

 

Fixed cost per unit

R3

R4

 

Consider the info provided and answer the questions that follow.

Q.2.1

 

 

 

Q.2.1.1

Calculate the break-even point for Dlamini & Sons for 2018 and 2019.

(7)

 

Q.2.1.2

Compare the results of the 2018 and 2019 break-even point and

explain why there might differences.

(2)

Q.2.2

   
   

 

 

Q.2.2.1

Calculate the acid-test ration for Dlamini & Sons.

(4)

 

Q.2.2.2

Explain whether the Acid-test ratio results are favourable.

(2)

Q.2.3

 

 

 

Q.2.3.1

Calculate the gross profit margin ratio for Dlamini & Sons.

(3)

 

Q.2.3.2

Explain whether the gross profit margin ratio results are favourable.

(2)

Q.2.4

 

 

 

Q.2.4.1

Differentiate between traditional budgeting and zero-base budgeting.

(2)

 

Q.2.4.2

Recommend one of these budgeting methods to Dlamini & Sons and

provide seasons for your recommendation.

(3) 

Question 3                                                                                                                (Marks: 25)

BlackBerry the hardware manufacturer is no more. While some of the phones in our chart are BB10 keyboard phones, a Chinese company called TCL now manufacturers phones using the BlackBerry brand and running Android. These phones take the top positions in the chart, as they

are more suited to the modern smartphone era” Burrel (2019).

 

Q.3.1

With the use of a cell phone as an example, apply the phases in the decision- making process.

 

Your answer should be a maximum of 650 words. Markers are to stop marking after the threshold of 650 words has been reached. Please indicate the word

count at the end your answer.

(15)

 

 

 

Q.3.2

With reference to the above quote, discuss the stages of the Blackberry product life

cycle.

(10)

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