MNG4801/101/0/2023

Tutorial Letter 101/0/2023

Strategic Management

MNG4801
Year module

Department of Business Management

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please register on myUnisa, activate your myLife email address and

regularly visit the myUnisa module website, MNG4801-2023-Y.

This module is only available online on myUnisa.

BARCODE

Open Rubric
 MNG4801/101/0/2023

CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................................3
2 OVERVIEW OF MNG4801 ..................................................................................................................4
2.1 Purpose and credits .......................................................................................................................4
3 CURRICULUM TRANSFORMATION ..................................................................................................4
4 LECTURERS AND CONTACT DETAILS ............................................................................................5
4.1 Contact details ................................................................................................................................5
4.2 Lecturers and contact details..........................................................................................................5
4.3 Department ....................................................................................................................................6
5 RESOURCES .....................................................................................................................................6
5.1 Joining myUnisa .............................................................................................................................6
5.2 Prescribed book .............................................................................................................................7
5.3 Electronic reserves (e-reserves).....................................................................................................9
5.4 Library services and resources ......................................................................................................9
6 HOW TO STUDY ONLINE ..................................................................................................................10
6.1 What does it mean to study online?..............................................................................................10
6.2 myUnisa tools ..............................................................................................................................10
7 ASSESSMENT .................................................................................................................................12
7.1 Assessment criteria ......................................................................................................................12
7.2 Assessment plan..........................................................................................................................12
7.3 General assignment numbers ........................................................................................................14
7.3.1 Assignments .......................................................................................................................14
7.3.2 Grace period for assignment submissions ..........................................................................15
7.3.3 Special assignment concessions (extensions) .....................................................................16
7.3.4 Assignment due dates ...........................................................................................................16
7.3.3 Submission and resubmission of assignments.......................................................................17
8 APPROACH TO THE MODULE AND ASSIGNMENTS .......................................................................19
8.1 Academic dishonesty ...................................................................................................................19
8.2 Assignment queries on results ....................................................................................................21
8.3 Proposed study guideline and Glossaries ....................................................................................22
9 OTHER ASSESSMENT METHODS ..................................................................................................25
10 EXAMINATION ...............................................................................................................................25
11 STUDENTS LIVING WITH DISABILITY ..........................................................................................28
12 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS..............................................................................................28
13 IN CLOSING ....................................................................................................................................28
ANNEXURE A: ASSIGNMENT 1 ................................................................................................................29

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1 INTRODUCTION

Dear MNG4801 Students

Welcome to Strategic Management (MNG4801) and greetings to all our MNG4801 students:

“Sanibona, Dumelang, Molweni, Hallo, Xewani Avuxeni, Salibonani, Bonjour, Salaam aleikum,
Ete-sen, Meeng-gah-boui, Jambo, Salama, Moni Moni onse and Muli shani”.

Congratulations on your registration for your postgraduate degree – your acceptance into the
programme shows that you have already mastered your undergraduate studies and are now able
to continue your learning process on an NQF (National Qualification Framework) level 8.

We shall do our best to make your study of this module interesting and rewarding. You will be well
on your way to success if you start studying early in the year and resolve to do your assignments
properly.

While this is a challenging module, we would like to encourage you with some African Proverbs:

“Tomorrow belongs to people who prepare for it today.”

“Knowledge is a garden. If it isn’t cultivated, you can’t harvest it.”

If you put in the hard work, you will succeed.

Firstly, you must be registered for a myLife e-mail address and have access to myUnisa. By doing
so, you can access study material, lessons, submit assignments, gain access to the Library
functions and various learning resources, download study material, "chat" to fellow students about
your studies and the challenges you may encounter, and participate in online discussion forums.

Please consult the Study @ Unisa publication for more information on the activation of your myLife
e-mail address as well as obtaining access to the myUnisa module site.

We hope that you will have a very enjoyable and successful year of study and we strongly
recommend that you start your studies as soon as possible. Because this is a fully online module,
you will need to use myUnisa to study and complete the learning activities for this module. Visit the
website for MNG4801 on myUnisa frequently. The website for this module is MNG4801-23-Y.

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Owing to the nature of this module, you can read about the module and find all your study material
online. Go to https://my.unisa.ac.za and log in with your student number and password and look
for the MNG4801-23-Y site.

2 OVERVIEW OF MNG4801

2.1 Purpose and credits

This module aims to build on the existing strategic management knowledge of postgraduate
students. Students will be able to select, integrate and apply relevant strategic management
theories to address complex problems in any type of organisation and contribute to the
development, implementation, and evaluation of ethically sound and sustainable strategies.

The minimum number of hours that you should spend on this module is coupled with the credits
for this module. For every credit, you need to spend a MINIMUM of 10 hours of work or study to
pass the module. MNG4801 consist out of 24 credits, which translates to 240 hours or
approximately 4.6 hours per week. Kindly see Study Plan in this TUT 101 to assist you with
planning.

3 CURRICULUM TRANSFORMATION

Unisa has implemented a transformation charter based on five pillars and eight dimensions. In
response to this charter, we have placed curriculum transformation high on the teaching and
learning agenda. Curriculum transformation includes the following pillars: student-centered
scholarship, the pedagogical renewal of teaching and assessment practices, the scholarship of
teaching and learning, and the infusion of African epistemologies and philosophies. These pillars
and their principles will be integrated at both programme and module levels as a phased-in
approach. You will notice a marked change in the teaching and learning strategy implemented
by Unisa, together with how the content is conceptualised in your modules. We encourage you
to embrace these changes during your studies at Unisa in a responsive way within the framework
of transformation.

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4 LECTURERS AND CONTACT DETAILS

4.1 Contact details

Central e-mail address for MNG4801

E-mail address straman@unisa.ac.za
Please use this e-mail address for general MNG4801 inquiries. If you do not get an answer, then contact
the primary lecturer. Please DO NOT CC all available e-mail addresses when contacting the
department.

4.2 Lecturers and contact details

The primary lecturers for this module are:

Dr Nadine de Metz (Primary lecturer for MNG4801)

Office number NS Radipere Building, 4-79, Muckleneuk Campus, Pretoria.

E-mail address dmetzn@unisa.ac.za
Telephone +27 12 429 4935

We can only assist with enquiries of an ACADEMIC nature, such as content-related enquiries. E-
mail is the preferred method of contact for direct academic inquiries. Please use your student
number with all queries and allow a reasonable response time of 48 hours.

When contacting us, it is strongly advised that you e-mail the lecturer from your myLife e-mail
account.
NB: To assist Unisa to safeguard your personal information, and in compliance with the POPI Act,
students need to use their myLife e-mail accounts when communicating with the university. By
using your myLife e-mail account, the university has a reasonable assurance that we are
communicating with you, as your e-mail address contains your student number and you use your
login credentials to access the account.

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Should you contact the lecturers telephonically, state your name and briefly explain the purpose
of your call. Have your student number at hand as well as a pen and paper.

Operating various e-mail accounts can become frustrating. After setting up your myLife account,
automatically redirect your e-mails to your primary e-mail address to ensure that you receive
all relevant information. This will allow you to selectively use your myLife account to contact
lecturers or administration staff without the fear of your e-mail being filtered by the firewall.

Should you require a meeting with the MNG4801 lecturer, you must set up an appointment.
Lecturers attend workshops, seminars and conferences and conduct research and facilitate
community engagement projects off-campus, which affect their availability. Thus, we ask and
recommend that you set up appointments. The preferred meeting arrangements are via online
meetings on the Microsoft Teams platform.

MICROSOFT TEAM MEETINGS

Please note that preparation by both the student and lecturer is required before meetings will be agreed
to and you will need to be specific about the purpose of the meeting. After a meeting has been agreed
to by e-mail, you may send a meeting invite. Sending a meeting invite without prior consultation does not
secure the meeting. You must do everything on your side to ensure the time of the meeting is utilized
efficiently. This includes reading this tutorial letter and engaging on the myUnisa forums.

4.3 Department

You can contact the Department of Business Management as follows:

Department of Business Management: Administrative Support

Telephone Number + 27 12 429 4220
E-mail address busman@unisa.ac.za
Please DO NOT CC all available e-mail addresses when contacting a department.

To contact the University, follow the instructions in the brochure Study @ Unisa. Remember to
have your student number available whenever you contact the University.

5 RESOURCES

5.1 Joining myUnisa

The myUnisa learning management system is Unisa's online campus and the system enables you

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to quickly access resources and information at Unisa. The myUnisa learning management system
will help you to communicate with the lecturers, with other students and with the administrative
departments at Unisa – all through the computer and the internet.

You can join myUnisa in the following ways:

• Go to the main Unisa website at http://www.unisa.ac.za and click on the myUnisa block, which
will take you to the myUnisa website. When you are on the myUnisa website, click on the
"Claim UNISA Login" at the right-hand side of the screen. You will then be prompted to give
your student number to claim your initial myUnisa and myLife login details.
OR
• Go to the myUnisa website directly at https://my.unisa.ac.za. When you are on the myUnisa
website, click on the "Claim UNISA Login" at the right-hand side of the screen. You will then
be prompted to give your student number to claim your initial myUnisa and myLife login details.

For more information on myUnisa, consult the brochure Study @ Unisa.

5.2 Prescribed book

You must purchase the following prescribed textbook for MNG4801:

Louw, L & Venter P. 2019. Strategic management: towards sustainable strategies in Southern
Africa. 4th edition. Cape Town: Oxford University Press.

Hardcopies ordered from bookshops can be delivered by courier. E-books are also available online:
https://www.vanschaik.com/ebook/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIvY-
V4unu6AIVkuvtCh2NpwNNEAAYASAAEgIbvPD_BwE
https://www.oxford.co.za/page/72-how-to-order-an-e-book-online

Please purchase the fourth edition of the textbook. All study material, assessments and
references will be based on the fourth edition. Should you choose to purchase the third edition,
it is your responsibility to get hold of a copy of the fourth edition and to compare the versions
for reference and study purposes.

The fourth edition is an updated and improved version of the third edition, which was used for
many years at Unisa and other institutions. Even though the fourth edition of the textbook has
been through rigorous development, reviews and approvals, small errors might exist. Should
you encounter any spelling, technical or conceptual errors in it, please e-mail:
straman@unisa.ac.za. Your feedback will assist us to address any errors for the future.

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 Image supplied by Oxford Publishers. Copyright Oxford.

Prescribed books can be obtained from the Unisa official booksellers. Please consult the list of
official booksellers and their addresses in the Study @ Unisa brochure. If you have difficulty in
locating your books, please contact the prescribed book section. Their details are:

Prescribed book section

Telephone number + 27 12 429 4152

E-mail address vospresc@unisa.ac.za

We recommend the following books (including any newer editions) as additional sources of
information and reference:

• De Wit, B. 2020. Strategy: An International Perspective. 7th Edition. United Kingdom: Cengage
Learning.

• Lazenby, JAA. 2018. The Strategic Management Process: A South African Perspective.
3rd Edition. Pretoria: Van Schaik

• Lynch, R. 2018. Strategic Management. 8th edition. United Kingdom: Pearson

• Thompson, AA, Strickland, AJ & Gamble, JE. 2020. Crafting and executing strategy: the quest
for competitive advantage. 22nd Edition. Boston: McGraw-Hill/Irwin

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5.3 Electronic reserves (e-reserves)

To enrich your learning experience, we recommend that you read a variety of academic journal
articles. You will not be examined on these articles during exams, but the additional reading will
enhance your understanding of strategic management and they are important for the completion
of your assignments.

A limited number of articles have been placed on the e-reserve. These articles cover some of the
study units within this module and provide a mix of seminal works as well as information on the
latest research in this field. The e-reserve articles are not necessarily those required for
assignments. You must search for the articles for assignments through the library.

The contents of the Library folder on the myUnisa MNG4801 module site page will provide you
with instructions on how to download articles from the Unisa Library website. It is recommended
that you get comfortable with online access to the library and the downloading of articles through
databases. The library folder provides useful information on how to use the library and access
other sources off-site via the internet.

It is important that you locate the articles in advance and not only before beginning
assignments. Lecturers cannot assist in locating the articles and e-mailing them to you. You must
learn to source journal articles from the Unisa library. This is an important aspect of a
postgraduate degree.

To obtain the articles to answer assignment questions (not on the e-Reserves list), you will need
to use the library databases, which require your library username and password. We, therefore,
emphasize that you need to register at the library to access the articles. Download articles in PDF
and save them to your computer or print them.

E-reserves can be downloaded from the Library catalogue. More information is available at
http://libguides.unisa.ac.za/request/request.

5.4 Library services and resources

The Unisa Library offers a range of information services and resources.

• For detailed Library information, go to: http://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Library
Library @ a glance
• For research support and services (e.g. personal librarians and literature search
services), go to:http://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Library/Library-
services/Research- support.
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The Library has created numerous Library guides (available at http://libguides.unisa.ac.za)
and we recommend that you use the following:

• Request recommended books and access e-reserve material:

https://libguides.unisa.ac.za/request
• Requesting and finding library material: Postgraduate services:
https://libguides.unisa.ac.za/request/postgrad
• Finding and using library resources and tools (Research Support):
https://libguides.unisa.ac.za/research-support
• Frequently asked questions about the library:
https://libguides.unisa.ac.za/ask
• Services to students living with disabilities:
https://libguides.unisa.ac.za/disability
• A-Z databases:
https://libguides.unisa.ac.za/az.php
• Subject-specific guides:
https://libguides.unisa.ac.za/?b=s

6 HOW TO STUDY ONLINE

6.1 What does it mean to study online?

Studying online modules differs completely from studying some of your other modules at Unisa.

• All the study material and learning activities for online modules are designed to be
delivered online on myUnisa. You will not receive printed material or tutorial letters.
• All your assignments MUST be submitted online. This means that you will do all the
activities and submit all your assignments on myUnisa. In other words, you may NOT post
your assignments to Unisa nor may you drop your assignment in the assignment boxes
(no hardcopies will be accepted).
• All communication between you and the University happens online. Lecturers will
communicate to you by e-mail and SMS, as well as using the Announcements, Lessons,
Discussion platform (providing additional lessons), Discussion Forums and Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQ) tools.

6.2 myUnisa tools

We have provided numerous resources on the MNG4801 module site to assist and guide students
in their studies. You must log into myUnisa regularly and we recommend that you log in at least

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once a week to do the following:

• Check for new announcements – you can set your myLife e-mail account so that you
receive the announcement via e-mails on your cellphone.
• View the lessons – these lessons cover the specific study units, outcomes and content of the
module.
• Check the FAQs – a comprehensive list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and answers
have been posted under the FAQ tab. Please check these before emailing the lecturer.
• Additional lesson series – additional lessons focusing on specific topics to guide you when
completing assignments and in preparing you for the final examination are uploaded on the
MNG4801 module site. These lessons provide important information on aspects pertaining to
referencing, plagiarism, how to paraphrase as well as on tips on academic writing and
how to answer examination questions. It is crucial for students to go through these
lessons to understand what is expected of them at postgraduate level.
• Do the Discussion Forum activities – when you do the activities for each lesson, you can
discuss your learning experience with other students who are registered for MNG4801. We
have created a number of discussion topics involving activities. We encourage students to
interact with one another on a number of topics, including:

o Welcoming you to MNG4801: introduce yourself to your peers

o Interesting articles on strategic management: share interesting articles with your
peers
o General strategic management enquiries
o Previous examination questions
o Feedback and suggestions for improving MNG4801
o Online graded activity: Strategic direction

• Do other online activities. For some of the lesson activities, you might need to post
something or complete a Self-Assessment. If requested to do so, do not skip these activities
because they will help you to complete the assignments and the activities for the module.

Stay Online: Whilst many students use the myUnisa platform to share contact details and form
Whatsapp or Telegram groups, we want to encourage you to rather stay online – where your
lecturing team are ready and available to support you.

Online Etiquette: There is a saying: If you wouldn’t say it to a person’s face, then don’t type it
online or on social media. It is important to remember that your peers and lecturers are people
and, even if you are frustrated, it is necessary to treat others in the same manner you would like
to be treated. Please consider this when engaging online or on any electronic platform.

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We hope that by giving you extra ways to study the material and practice, we will help you to
succeed in the online module. To get the most out of the online module you MUST go online
regularly to complete the activities and assignments on time.

7 ASSESSMENT

7.1 Assessment criteria

There are different types of performance standards that one can use when assessing
performance. This module is based on the mastery of specified learning outcomes for NQF level
8. Standards for accrediting qualifications are set by the South African Qualifications Authority
(SAQA), which oversees the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Assessment plays an
important role in the learning process. For this module, three assignments form part of the
formative assessment. These assignments are used to assess your progress during the year and
provide feedback, which you can use to improve your future performance in this module.

7.2 Assessment plan

Assignments are part of the learning material for this module. As you do the assignments, study
the reading texts, consult other resources or do research, you are actively engaging in learning.
Paying attention to the assessment criteria for each assignment will help you to understand what
is required of you.

• To complete this module, you will be required to submit three (3) individual assignments
which will be used to calculate your year mark. Your year mark, based on the mark
obtained for the three assignments, contributes 40% towards your final mark, while
your examination mark contributes 60%.
• All information on when and where to submit your assignments will be made available
to you via the MNG4801 module site for your module.
• Due dates for assignments, as well as the actual assignments are available on the
MNG4801 Module sites under the “Assignments” tab. This is a postgraduate module and
therefore adherence to due dates is expected. Please view the landing page of the
MNG4801 module site as soon as you have registered to view information regarding
due dates and where to access the assignments.
• To gain admission to the examination, you need to obtain a minimum year mark average

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 of 40% for the assignments.
• Although the first assignment contributes to your year mark, it is not a requirement for
obtaining examination entrance.
• NB: General assignment extensions communicated by the College (or via SMS), usually
only apply to undergraduate modules and NOT postgraduate modules. Students therefore
need to stick to the due dates provided on the MNG4801 module site. Lecturers will
communicate with students directly via an announcement (email) should any extensions
be given for the module. If you are unsure about whether an extension has been provided
or not, please contact the lecturer for confirmation.

No adjustments of year marks will be done to ensure examination admission. If your year mark
is 39% or less, you will not gain admission to the examination. Please do not ask your
lecturer to allow you to write the examination when your mark is lower than 40%, your lecturer is
unable to grant you access. Your admission is an automatic process based on your year
performance. The following examples illustrate each assignment's contribution to your year mark
as well as the final calculation of the year mark for exam admission:

Assignment Assignment Contribution Assignment Assignment

number type to year mark mark contribution
to year mark
01 Written 20% 55% 11%
02 Written 40% 20% 8%
03 Written 40% 10% 4%
Year mark 23% No exam admission

Assignment Assignment Contribution Assignment Assignment

number type to year mark mark contribution
to year mark
01 Written 20% 60% 12%
02 Written 40% 60% 24%
03 Written 40% 50% 20%
Year mark 56% Exam admission

To pass this module, you must obtain a final mark of 50%. Both your year mark and
examination mark contribute to the final mark. The subminimum rule of 40% is applicable,
which means that your MNG4801 year mark will not be part of the final mark if the examination
mark is less than 40%. We realize that you will be growing in your learning experience and have
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thus decided to let Assignment 01, which is due early in your learning process, contribute
proportionately less towards the year mark. As you gain more strategic management skills and
knowledge, the subsequent assignments will contribute proportionately more towards your year
mark.

7.3 General assignment numbers

Assignments are numbered consecutively per module, starting from 01. In addition to the general
assignment number (for example, Assignment 01), each assignment has a unique assignment
number that is required when assignments are submitted.

The unique number will be on the Assignment Submission tab when you submit online via
myUnisa.

7.3.1 Assignments

Let us start with a discussion on what it means to study at postgraduate level. According to the
National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 8, students who complete this course as part of a
qualification, should do the following:

• "Operate effectively within a system or manage a system" (like studies and time management).
• "Apply (in a self-critical manner) learning strategies, which effectively address professional
and ongoing learning needs of self and others."
• Take "full responsibility for own work, decision‐making and use of resources. Full
accountability for the decisions and action of others where appropriate.”
• Take ownership and responsibility to be a postgraduate degree holder. We expect you to
approach assignments responsibly, ethically and proactively to submit the correct assignment
on time (due date). A due date is the date on which the assignment is due to be uploaded
online.

We encourage you to start with your assignments early and we encourage you to work
proactively and submit your assignment before the due dates.

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7.3.2 Grace period for assignment submissions

We are providing you with an additional week (seven days including weekends) grace period after
the initial due date to submit or resubmit your assignment and for it to be marked. Do not abuse this
grace period. This extra week after the due date is to accommodate:

• ALL types of life circumstances and family, health, travel, work and technical
challenges. It is for students who genuinely need it.
• Errors and incorrect uploads that occur during uploading. During the grace period, you
should "view" your submission and make sure you uploaded the correct document
and then resubmit before the final submission date. Re/Submissions after the final
upload date = late assignment = zero.
• The last day to upload is the absolute final date for you to upload or resubmit your
assignment. Do not aim to submit on the final date. An assignment is considered late
if it is uploaded eight days after the initial due date. Irrespective of whether the portal is
open; if you submit your assignment eight days after the due date then your assignment
is LATE. LATE ASSIGNMENTS WILL NOT BE MARKED AND WILL GET ZERO.

Please make sure to adhere to the following technical requirements in each assignment:

Assignments should adhere to the following criteria:

Font size 11
Font style Arial
Margins 2 centimetres on all sides of the page (make sure the default is not set to inches)

Lines Justified. Use this MSWord function →

Referencing method Harvard referencing method according to the MNG4801 Harvard referencing Guide
(available on the MNG4801 module site)

Page limits If the assignment content does not adhere to the page limits as set out for each
question in the assignment, penalties will be applied. Student’s work will not be
marked after the page limit is exceeded.

Assignments should be typed and written in third, not first, person.

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7.3.3 Special assignment concessions (extensions)

Concessions are awarded at the discretion of the lecturer and students who do not make an
arrangement with the lecturer (Step 1) or have insufficient evidence (Step 2), will get ZERO for
their Late Assignment.

SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT CONCESSION PROCEDURE

Since we have already provided you with a concession of an extra seven days for all types of
life events, we do not expect to receive e-mails asking for concessions. However, for extra-
ordinary circumstances, you can e-mail the lecturer to request a concession to submit a late
assignment via the portal. If you cannot submit by the last – final - day, then this is what you
should do:

1. E-mail the primary lecturer promptly. Students need to contact the lecturer before the
due date or within 7 days after the due date has passed in order to apply for a
concession.
2. Explain your situation and motivate with evidence why you require an extension. Your
e-mail should be both polite and reasonable.

The lecturer will evaluate your situation and respond. IF the concession is granted, you are
likely to receive a 10% penalty for the late submission.

Please do not e-mail us weeks after the due date, asking for a concession. We cannot
accommodate concessions and submissions once the follow-up TUT 201, 202, 203 is out and
when it is time for the next assignment.

All assignments are INDIVIDUAL assignments. Although we find that students often work in a
group when preparing for an assignment, limit your group work to conceptual discussions
and NEVER share your assignment content (answers) with others. You must do your own
assignment and give your own interpretations of what you have learnt when completing the
assignments. Identical assignments or customized 'templates' by different members of a group is
unacceptable. When caught, you will receive zero (0%) for the assignment and be subjected to
disciplinary action.

7.3.4 Assignment due dates

The three assignments are designed to prepare you to achieve the outcomes for the module and
for the examination. There are no assignment due dates included in this tutorial letter.

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Please take note of the following:

• Assignment due dates will be made available to you under the “Assignment” tab on the
myUnisa site. The due dates will be available to you upon registration.
• Only assignment 1 is available in tutorial letter 101. Your assignment 2 and
assignment 3 will be made available to you in follow up tutorial letters on the specific
release dates as stated on myUnisa (Assignment tab).
• Log on to the myUnisa site as soon as you have registered for this module to obtain more
information on the due dates for the submission of the assignments.

Assignment Due date Last day to upload Type of Assignment Marks

(seven days later)
= final upload date
01 Due dates for As indicated on the - Essay style with structured questions 70
assignments, as MNG4801 module referring to a case study.
well as the actual site - It includes 10 MCQ’s covering topics
assignments are of referencing, paraphrasing and
available on the plagiarism.
MNG4801 module - It includes an online
site for this module. activity.
- Individual assignment.
02 Essay style with structured questions. 70
referring to a case study.
Individual assignment.
03 Essay style with structured questions 70
referring to a case study.
Individual assignment.

7.3.3 Submission and resubmission of assignments

We require that you submit your typed assignments online via myUnisa in PDF.

Marking at Unisa is done through Adobe PDF files, customised marking and commenting tools.
The distribution and marking are managed through a J-Router system. You need to comply with
the following submission instructions to get your assignment marked. Firstly, you should submit
your typed assignment as ONE PDF file ONLINE. Secondly, it is YOUR responsibility to ensure
that your assignment submissions include:

• The CORRECT assignment. This means the correct module, correct assignment and the
correct assignment number.

• A SINGLE, STANDARD PDF file. Open your typed assignment and then simply 'save as'

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 PDF from the MSWord version. You should have one electronic document to submit. The
system does not combine files for you. It must be done before the upload. If you submit a
document and then another, the second document replaces the first one.

• DO NOT protect it with a password and DO NOT make it a READ ONLY PDF. We cannot
mark it in these formats. You will get zero marks if you upload such files.

• DO NOT EMBED files in assignments as embedded files in PDF documents cannot be opened.

• DO NOT CERTIFY or WRITE PROTECT the PDF file. You will get zero marks if you do this.

You should ensure your computer is virus free and make sure the file you upload is clean from
viruses. A file that contains viruses can result in a corrupted file that cannot be marked.

Note that electronic signatures automatically convert the document to Read Only format,
avoid using electronic signatures in your declaration.

ALWAYS click "view" assignment after submission to check that you did not upload another
document erroneously. It is important to note that you have a maximum of three attempts to
resubmit your assignment. Be aware that the system will record that latest date that you
uploaded your assignment. If you submit a draft or a wrong assignment on time and then decide
to cancel the submission and upload another version of the assignment AFTER the final upload
date, we will consider the latest date and not your earlier submission date. Your assignment will
be considered late. Make sure that you resubmit WITHIN the grace period provided.

In the past, students have uploaded a draft assignment, believing that they have "submitted on
time" and they then assume that it is okay to cancel their assignment at a later stage and replace
it with another. This is not permitted. The marking process starts immediately after the final date
to upload.

Please also take note that the assignment portal date on myUnisa is NOT necessarily your
assignment due date. Irrespective of whether the system or portal allows you to submit your
assignment, late assignments will receive zero marks. You need to adhere to the due dates
provided on the myUnisa site under “Assignments” tab - unless an announcement from the lecturer
states otherwise.

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES MAY ASSIGNMENTS BE SUBMITTED BY E-MAIL.

A tutorial letter (Tutorial letter 201/202/203) will be uploaded on myUnisa containing feedback
with guidelines of what was expected from you for the assignment questions. You will receive your

18
marked assignment with the marker's comments via myUnisa.

Assignments are marked exclusively onscreen (online). Marked assignments are distributed after
they have been marked. There is no need to panic if your peers have received their marked
assignment, as the marking for this subject is done in real time. Allow at least six weeks after the
closing date of the assignment for the marking and return of your assignment as this is a large
module. If you have still not received a marked assignment and feedback when the tutorial letter
is sent out, follow up with the lecturer. Annexure B contains the declaration of own work (MUST
form part of EACH assignment). Annexure D includes the complaints procedure for your
reference.

8 APPROACH TO THE MODULE AND ASSIGNMENTS

The greatest shock to students is how the assignments should be approached. At the level of this
qualification, it is unacceptable to retype theory or copy and paste. The focus is on
understanding the applicable theory, to recognize it in case studies, and to apply it scientifically to
construct an argument or to perform a critical evaluation.

8.1 Academic dishonesty

Plagiarism has been a big problem in the past and the consequences are severe.

Plagiarism is the act of taking the words, ideas and thoughts of others and passing them off as
your own. It is a form of theft that involves several dishonest academic activities. An example of
plagiarism is retrieving information from the textbook or a previous tutorial letter and then copying
and pasting it into your assignment verbatim and submitting it as your own work. Copying and
pasting (word for word) and with or without the reference is also unacceptable. You need to
interpret the content and put it in your own words with references! Assignments need to
demonstrate your own original content.

UNISA subscribes to Turnitin (TII) as its official proctoring tool. Assignments and
Examinations will be submitted to TII after submission on the portal. The reports will be
evaluated by a subject matter expert when marking your assignment and remain property
of UNISA to be used in a Disciplinary hearing. No report is required by you when submitting
an assignment.

19
UNISA considers cheating as, but is not limited to, the following:

• Completing assessments on behalf of another student, copying from another student during an
assessment or allowing a student to copy from you.
• Using social media (eg WhatsApp, Telegram) or other platforms to disseminate assessment
information.
• Submitting corrupt or irrelevant files
• Buying completed answers from “tutors” or internet sites (contract cheating).
• Using paraphrasing software such as Quilbot or Paraphraser is considered cheating and
constitutes plagiarism. By using paraphrasing software you are disguising the ideas of other
authors so as to pass them off as your own interpretation.

The Disciplinary code for students (2008) is given to all students when they register. Students are
advised to study the Code, especially sections 1.18 and 1.19. More information on this code is available
in the Study @ Unisa brochure.

If you are unsure about what it means to not plagiarise or how to reference correctly, do some
reading before you begin your assignment. myUnisa contains resources on plagiarism and
guidelines on how to reference. It is your responsibility to consult these resources.

It is suggested that you check how much you know about plagiarism by taking this quiz and
by watching this video:

https://www.turnitin.com/static/plagiarism-quiz/
or search "Writecheck Plagiarism Quiz"

https://youtu.be/EF5eFeJMplA

To develop the writing, researching and referencing skills expected at this level, you need to
spend time preparing your assignments. Should you discover that you are constantly revising your
answers for your assignments as you progress, you are on the right track! This process is circular
and repetitive. Do not take short cuts on the road to success!

A reminder to please consult the additional lessons we have provided on the MNG4801
module site where we cover topics such as referencing, paraphrasing, plagiarism as well
as tips on academic writing style and how to approach examination questions.

20
OUTSIDE TUTORS

The lecturing team, via myUnisa, provides ample resources, support and opportunities to learn and
develop yourselves in this course. The module has been designed for you to self-study and pass the
module. If you choose to engage the services of an outside tutor, please take note of the following:

• Outside tutors are not affiliated with Unisa or endorsed by the institution and they are in no way
involved in setting or grading assessments.
• The guidelines or templates that they provide for assignments and examinations are not approved
by us and are not required to be successful in this module.
• Templates and guidelines have resulted in Significant plagiarism in the past. You should do your
own assignment to avoid penalties and disciplinary action. Customising and tweaking a generic
template is not your own work and will have severe consequences for you.
• Never allow anyone to write content or paste their content into your assignment as this is unethical
and results in you plagiarizing.
• E-mailing your assignment to tutors (or peers) means that you are sharing your intellectual property
and you have no control how widely the assignment gets shared (and copied). Identical or
plagiarised assignments could result in you getting ZERO for your work and then receiving
disciplinary action from the University.

8.2 Assignment queries on results

Please follow these steps BEFORE contacting us about your assignment result:
1. Read all instructions for the assignment. Many students query their marks and the comments when we
have provided clear instructions for assignments that should always be adhered to.
2. Read the marker's comments and pause to reflect on them for a few days (this is an important step in
the learning process). Try to take the emotion out and focus on what needs to be improved. This is a
learning journey.
3. WAIT for the follow-up Tutorial Letter 201/202/203 and then study it carefully and reflect on your
work further.
4. Usually, all your questions and concerns are addressed by the third step; should you still have
queries after this, then contact the lecturer by e-mail. Please understand that we will ask you to
follow this reflective and learning process (steps) first.

Should you still require contacting the lecturer, you need to be specific about what you are
querying, and you should be prepared. We will review the specific assignment sections of the
assignment that you are querying and give you individual feedback after you have compared
your assignment answers with the contents of the follow up tutorial letters and the theory in the
textbook. You need to do a question-by-question analysis in TEMPLATE form with comments
21
on where you believe additional marks should have been allocated or where you have concerns.
We will ask you for this analysis before we can provide you with individual feedback.

This is a good learning exercise that helps to direct us to the specific areas you are concerned
about and assists us to give you swift feedback. Always keep emails about your assignments
polite and avoid personally attacking markers. Our markers are highly qualified individuals
dedicated to fair assessment. Lecturers are also very involved in the marking process and do
hours of moderation.

Please note: we will not be remarking your entire assignment because you want a higher mark
and nor are we willing to remark all three assignments so that you can get examination entrance.
This raises Red Flags about your motives and commitment to learning.

8.3 Proposed study guideline and Glossaries

At postgraduate level, we acknowledge that you already have an undergraduate degree and,
therefore, you know how to study, how to plan your time and how to meet deadlines. However,
some of you may benefit by this proposed study guideline. Remember that only YOU can get this
qualification and it requires that YOU take ownership and responsibility for YOUR studies. You are
encouraged to develop your own study plan from this guideline and to work in advance where
possible.

The proposed study guidelines begin on the next page.

22
Date Activity Notes
January - Registration and orientation: Read the welcome message on
February the MNG4801 module site and the
1. Read this tutorial letter front to back
2023 important information in the
(TWICE) – the “Start here!” section on
“Start here” section.
the MNG4801 module site contains TL
101's and TL 301's information. Review the lessons on myUnisa

2. Go to MNG4801-2023 module site and and take note of how they link to the

familiarise yourself with all the content. chapters. Review the additional

3. Purchase the prescribed textbook. topic lessons we have provided on

4. Ensure that your myLife e-mail account is the topics of referencing,

set up and that it forwards e-mails to any paraphrasing, plagiarism and

other e-mail address that you check academic writing so you understand

regularly. the expectations at postgraduate

level.
Read the learning outcomes and
assessment criteria contained in the
lessons.
Read the assignment instructions
and get an idea of the expectations.
Open FAQs on myUnisa and the
other tabs.
Introduce yourself to the other
students on the discussion forum
"Welcome to MNG4801".
Study the presentation on how to
avoid plagiarism and familiarise
yourself with referencing
expectations.

23
March - Study: Do the learning and self-
April 2023 assessment activities associated
1. Lessons 1, 2 and 3 on the MNG4801 with these lessons and in the
module site. corresponding chapters.
Download and read articles from
2. Chapters 1, 2, 3, 4 and 9 of
the Unisa library to expand your
the prescribed book.
understanding of concepts.
Begin your assignment 1 in advance. Download the articles required for
all three assignments from the
Unisa library.
Post a comment on the discussion
forum titled: "Interesting articles
on strategic management." Make
study notes and try to get a head
start on your studying.

May 2023 1. Work on assignment 1. Aim to submit your assignment

before the due date.
2. Navigate general discussion
forums and engage online.
3. Aim to finish Assignment 01 on
time to meet the due date.
Remember to complete the
Graded Online Activity.

Check the due ASSIGNMENT 01 SUBMISSION Submit your assignment on time.

dates under the
Late assignment = zero
“Due dates for
1. Read the instructions for the
Assignments "View" your assignment to ensure
2023” tab on assignment again.
the myUnisa that you uploaded the correct and
2. Upload your assignment on time
module site complete document.
in the correct format.

21
June 2023 Study: Do not wait for Assignment 01's
feedback before starting with
1. Lessons 4 and 5 on the MNG4801
module site. Assignment 02.
Begin with Assignment 02 and
2. Chapters 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 of incorporate the feedback you
the prescribed book. receive before submission (they are
standalone assignments).
Begin Assignment 02 in advance.

July 2023 1. Review the feedback on Assignment Reflect on your approach and on
01.
areas you can improve on.
2. Read Tutorial Letter 201 and
compare it to your assignment.

Check the due ASSIGNMENT 02 SUBMISSION Submit your assignment on time

dates under the
and "View" your assignment to
“Due dates for
1. Read the instructions for
Assignments ensure that you uploaded the
2023” tab on Assignment 02 again.
correct document.
the myUnisa 2. Upload your assignment on time
module site
in the correct format.
August Study: Do not wait for Assignment 02's
2023 feedback before starting with
1. Lessons 5 and 6 on the MNG4801
module Assignment 03; begin your
site assignment and then incorporate
2. Chapters 10,11, 12, 13 and 14 of the feedback you receive (they are
the prescribed book. standalone assignments).

Begin Assignment 03 in advance.

September 1. Review the feedback on Assignment Reflect on your approach and on

02.
2023 areas you can improve on.
2. Compare Tutorial letter 202 to
your assignment.
3. Reflect on your approach and
how to improve.

Check the due ASSIGNMENT 03 SUBMISSION: Submit your assignment on time

dates under the
and "View" to ensure that you
“Due dates for
1. Read the instructions for the
Assignments uploaded the correct document.
2023” tab on the assignment again.
myUnisa
2. Upload your assignment on time
module site
in the correct format.

23
October Study: Download previous examination
2023 papers and start practicing the
1. All the lessons and chapters.
questions.

2. Expand your understanding of strategic Contribute to the discussion forum

management concepts by researching titled: "Previous
and reading up on them. examination questions".
3. Make study notes and start practicing
previous examination questions.

November 1. Review the feedback on Assignment 03. Lecturers do not award

2023 2. Read Tutorial Letter 203 and compare it examination admission. It is
to your assignment. calculated on your performance
3. Check that you have examination during the year.
admission.

December 1. Revise all chapters, lessons, Look out for communication on your
2023 and assignments, learning and assessment examination format. We will not
January outcomes. provide a reduced scope as you are
2024 2. Practice self-assessment activities. postgraduate students.
3. Practice previous examination questions.

GLOSSARIES ON MYUNISA

To support you on your learning journey, we have included a Glossary of Question Words on
the myUnisa module site. This includes descriptions of the Question Words used in
assessment so as to guide you on how to interpret questions. In addition, a Glossary of Key
Terms has been developed with definitions of terms used in Strategic Management. The
Glossary has been translated into additional African Languages.

The Glossaries are not exhaustive, and you are encouraged to expand the lists for your own
understanding.

24
9 OTHER ASSESSMENT METHODS

Study @ Unisa contains important information on the final-year (FI) concession procedure to assist
students with one or two modules outstanding of their degree.

The Department of Student Assessment and Administration (DSAA) will inform all students who
qualify for a special concession assessment per SMS/e-mail. If you are not informed, it is likely
that you may not meet the requirements. Please DO NOT ASK your lecturer if you can be
'added' to the list' or ask if we can grant you a special alternative assessment because
MNG4801 is your final module – this process is managed by the DSAA and not by lecturers.

Again, it is important to note that a student can qualify for up to a maximum of two formal
examination opportunities; for example, the initial examination and ONE additional opportunity for
the FI concession (or supplementary or aegrotat examination). Students who fail the second
assessment opportunity (or who are absent for whatever reason) must reregister for the module.

For this module, FI students will be required to complete an alternative assessment. Information
regarding the alternative assessment will be communicated to you, once you have been identified.
You cannot decide how you will be assessed. This remains the College's prerogative.

Alternative methods of assessment are subject to stringent academic rules and processes. Failure
to meet the learning outcomes of the module, through the alternative method of assessment, will
result in a fail and you will need to reregister for the module.

10 EXAMINATION

Use the Study @ Unisa brochure for general examination guidelines, examination preparation
guidelines, information on remarking and purchasing of your examination answer book.
Examination matters are managed by the examination department and not the lecturer.

The examination for this module is scheduled during the January/February examination period.
A year mark of 40% is required for admission to the exam. Irrespective of the year mark you
obtain, you must obtain a subminimum of 40% in the examination for your year mark to be
considered. You will therefore not pass the module if your examination mark is less than
40%.

Guidance on how to prepare for the examination and on the structure of the examination will be
provided towards the end of the year on myUnisa via a tutorial letter. Please do not expect a
25
'scope' of reduced content. You are a postgraduate student; therefore, you need to know the
content of strategic management comprehensively. For guidance on what you can expect, you
can review the learning and assessment outcomes of the module made available in this tutorial
letter.

For your convenience, previous MNG4801 examination papers are available on the MNG4801
module site. You can review and practice them to get an idea of the general expectations of a
strategic management examination. Note that the memoranda (answers) are not available to
students.

However, should you attempt previous questions, we are willing to guide you on whether
you are 'on the right track.' Please join the discussion forum on the MNG4801 module site
dedicated to discussing previous examination questions.

10.1 Invigilation/proctoring
Since 2020 Unisa conducts all its assessments online. Given stringent requirements from
professional bodies and increased solicitations of Unisa’s students by third parties to unlawfully
assist them with the completion of assignments and examinations, the University is obliged to
assure its assessment integrity through the utilisation of various proctoring tools: Turnitin, Moodle
Proctoring, the Invigilator App and IRIS. These tools will authenticate the student’s identity and
flag suspicious behaviour to assure credibility of students’ responses during assessments. The
description below is for your benefit as you may encounter any or all of these in your registered
modules:

Students must refer to their module assessment information on their myModule sites to
determine which proctoring or invigilation tool will be utilised for their formative and
summative assessments.

Students who are unable to write their January/February examinations due to medical reasons or
work-related commitments must apply in terms of the rules for aegrotat/special examinations. For
this module, the aegrotat and supplementary exam will be written in May/June. FI concession
students will be identified by Unisa and re-examined accordingly. Students who are unsuccessful
at their second assessment opportunity in May/June will have to repeat the module and pay the
full tuition fees. All students are encouraged to reregister for the following year IN ADVANCE
should they feel less confident about the examination. Many students who failed the initial
examinations lingered before reregistering and had to wait a year before being able to register
again.
26
There will be a second assessment opportunity in May/June, after the January/February exam for
MNG4801. Supplementary examinations may be granted provided you received a subminimum of
40% in the examination and the final mark is between 40 and 49%. You cannot apply for a
supplementary examination. If you qualify for a supplementary examination, you will be notified
when you receive your results. If you fail your supplementary examination, you will need to repeat
the module.

We encourage students to register for Strategic Management (MNG4801) as a precaution before

the closing date for registrations. No late registrations will be permitted. Lecturers do not
manage student accounts and registrations. Should a supplementary examination be granted, and
you are unable to write the examination, you will not be able to apply for an aegrotat/special
examination. The May/June supplementary examination opportunity is considered a second
opportunity.

This process is managed by the examination and registration departments and not the
lecturer. Refer to Study @ Unisa for further information. Examination results may not be given
by lecturers to students under any circumstances – there are official channels to release results.
Please DO NOT e-mail or phone the lecturer for your results. You may request a copy of your
examination answer book. Send an e-mail to purchasescript@unisa.ac.za with your proof of
payment. Remember to include your student number in the subject line. A scanned copy of your
answer book will be sent to your myLife e-mail account once your application has been approved.

You may apply to have your examination answer book remarked. Please do not CC the
Lecturer in the below three inquiries as we are not involved in the process.

Please use the contact details below:

Inquiry Contact detail Additional information
needed
Purchasing an exam script Email: Provide proof of payment
purchasescript@unisa.ac.za and student number in
subject line
Re-marking of examination Email: remark@unisa.ac.za Provide proof of payment
script (Apply only if you received and student number in
between 35% and 49% or subject line
between 68% and 74%).

FI Concession The Department of

examination Administration
will inform you if you qualify –
do not ask the lecturer to
add you to the list –
lecturers do not manage this
process.
27
11 STUDENTS LIVING WITH DISABILITY

The Advocacy and Resource Centre for Students with Disabilities (ARCSWiD) provides an
opportunity for staff to interact with new and returning students who have disabilities.

If you are a student with a disability and would like additional support or need additional time for
assessments, please contact the primary lecturer so that you can be assisted. Please do not
assume your lecturer has knowledge of your specific needs because you registered previously.

Unisa provides a wide range of support services for students with disabilities. If you have a
disability, please make sure that you register it with Unisa to ensure that you can receive the
support you deserve.

Read more about ARCSWiD on the Unisa website, using this link:
https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/myunisa/default/Student-Affairs-&-SRC/Support-to-students-with-
disabilities

12 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The Study @ Unisa brochure contains an A-Z guide of the most relevant study information.
Go to the FAQ (Frequently Asked Question) tab on the MNG4801 module site for more
information, as many of the common and frequently asked questions about the module have
been answered there. These include questions about assignments, textbooks, examinations and
other administrative questions. They have been answered for convenience. The lecturer will refer
you to these if you enquire with a FAQ.

13 IN CLOSING
We trust that this tutorial letter has provided you with insight into the module and how you can
prepare. We wish you a fascinating and satisfying journey and hope that you will complete the
module successfully. We wish you the best with your studies.

Enjoy the strategic management learning journey!

The MNG4801 lecturers,

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

28
ANNEXURE A: ASSIGNMENT 1

Assignment 1
70 Marks

Due date: Refer to the MNG4801 module site

Message to students:
This is your first (1St) assignment, and it is an excellent introduction to the module. Use this
assignment as an opportunity to properly engage in the learning material and articles and to
learn about strategic management. Studying the theory and learning how to do case studies
in this assignment will help you with the examination. So, don’t sell yourself short, start
preparing early, do your own work and submit an INDIVIDUAL assignment!

Follow these instructions carefully:

1 Please adhere to the page limits provided per question. Students will be penalized if page
limits are not adhered to.
2. The declaration template is in Annexure B. Do not forget to complete the declaration of
your own work (Question 1 of assignment 1) – or your assignment will not be marked.
3. Do not forget to answer the reflection questions (the last question in each assignment)
– or you will lose marks.
4. Follow the instructions in the questions carefully and do not plagiarize as you will be
penalized or could get zero and be reported to student disciplinary. Learn more about
plagiarism and how to reference on myUnisa.
5. Start your assignment and preparation early: Do not submit the assignment late.
6. Please use full sentences and write in third person and do not use bullet points, lists, tables
or figures in the assignment.
7. It is important that you reference all sources in accordance with the Business
Management Harvard Referencing Guidelines (available on myUnisa) and that you do
not plagiarize. Refer to the topic lessons on myUnisa module site.
8. Please number your assignment answers in the same format as they are asked in this
assignment and do not create your own numbering and sub-questions.

Background to Assignment 1 (setting the scene):

You are a renowned business consultant, with specific expertise in the retail industry. You start a
consulting business where you offer professional strategic advice and consult to organisations in
the retail industry. As part of your consulting work, you have been asked to complete the following
tasks (questions). Read the Bathu Shoes case study (Annexure C) and answer the questions that
follow.
Important: You may NOT contact Bathu Shoes or ANY employee or stakeholder directly or
indirectly involved with Bathu Shoes or any other organisation mentioned in the case study – ONLY
make use of the case study provided and the prescribed material. You may consult and reference peer-
reviewed academic sources.

29
 MNG4801/102/0/2023

Question 1: DECLARATION
1. Insert the declaration template (Annexure B) here and complete it as part of your
assignment.

Failure to complete the declaration of your own work will result in a zero (0) mark for the
entire assignment.

Question 2:
2. Review Topic lesson 2 and Topic Lesson 3 (under Lesson 1 on the module site) uploaded
on the MNG4801 module site that discusses referencing, paraphrasing and plagiarism. Then
answer the following multiple-choice questions on referencing, paraphrasing and plagiarism as
part of Question 2 in your assignment 1.

*Please note: Conventions regarding referencing style and guidelines pertaining to

paraphrasing may differ between Institutions, Colleges, Departments and even modules. For
MNG4801 it is important that you adhere to the MNG4801 Business Management Harvard
referencing Guidelines (available on the myUnisa module site) AND review the additional
Topic lessons we have provided on the module site to understand what is expected of
you.

Example on how to answer Question 2 in your assignment answer script:

Question 2:

1 (a)

2 (b)

3 (c)

1. Which of the following are examples of plagiarism?

a. Copying and pasting text without referencing the source.
b. Buying essays online and submitting them as your own.
c. Resubmitting previously submitted work without referencing.
d. Submitting an individual assignment created by a group.
e. The use of paraphrasing software.
f. Paraphrasing text and including citations that are not the correct citation for the
information provided.
g. Including proper in-text referencing with the text but relying too closely on the text’s
original wording and/or structure.
h. All of the above

30
2. Which one of the following statements about the list of references is correct?

a. References should be in the Harvard referencing style.

b. The list of references should be in alphabetical order.
c. Each in-text reference should appear in your list of references.
d. All of the above

3. When is it acceptable to use inverted commas in your assignments/exam for MNG4801?

a. When using a short excerpt directly from a case study.

b. When I copy and paste content and I reference it.
c. When a phrase or sentence (no longer than 3-4 words) is so specific that it cannot be
put into your own words.
d. When emphasizing a certain word or short phrase (no longer than 3-4 words).

a. a b c
b. a b d
c. b c d
d. a c d

4. The act of collusion also constitutes plagiarism. Is this statement true or false?

a. True
b. False

5. When I paraphrase in my assignment or exam for MNG4801, I must not:

a. Change one or two words by using synonyms and reference it to make it my own.
b. Put quotation marks around the text and reference it.
c. Use only the idea from the text without referencing it.
d. Summarise the text in my own words and reference it.

a. a b c
b. b c d
c. a b d
d. a c d

31
 6. What is the correct reference format for the book that is prescribed for MNG4801 according
to the Harvard referencing style?

a. Louw, Lynette and Venter, Peet. 2019. Strategic Management. Cape Town:
Oxford University Press
b. Louw, L. and Venter, P. 2019. Strategic Management: Towards sustainable strategies
in South Africa. Cape Town: Oxford University Press
c. Louw, L. and Venter, P. (2019) Strategic Management: Towards sustainable strategies
in South Africa. Cape Town: Oxford University Press
d. Strategic management, L. Louw, & P. Venter, Cape Town: Oxford University Press

7. What is the correct reference format for a journal article according to the Harvard
referencing style?

a. Nicolai J. Foss. 2020, 'Behavioral Strategy and the COVID-19 disruption', Journal of
Management, 8 (46): 1322-1329.
b. Foss, N.J. 2020. Behavioral Strategy and the COVID-19 disruption. Journal of
Management, 8 (46): 1322-1329.
c. Foss, N.J. 2020. 'Behavioral Strategy and the COVID-19 disruption', Journal of
Management, 8 (46): 1322-1329.
d. Foss, N.J. 2020, 'Behavioral Strategy and the COVID-19 disruption', Sustainability, Vol 8,
no. 46: pages 1322-1329

8. What is the correct reference format for an internet source according to the Harvard
referencing style?

a. Weida, S & Stolley, K. 2013. Developing strong thesis statements. [Online] Available from:
<https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/588/1/> [Accessed on: 13 October 2015].
b. Weida, S & Stolley, K. 2013. [Online] https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/588/1/
[Accessed on: 13 October 2015].
c. Weida, S & Stolley, K. 2013. Developing strong thesis statements. Available from:
<https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/588/1/>
d. Weida, S & Stolley, K. 2013. Developing strong thesis statements. Available from:
<https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/588/1/> [Accessed on: 13 October 2015].

32
 9. Which one is the correct in-text reference format according to the Harvard referencing
style?

a. According to Le Roux et al. (2016), sustainability should be embedded into the

“organisation’s strategy fabric” and value creation process as it plays a vital part in
ensuring the organisation’s future resilience and performance.
b. According to Le Roux and Pretorius (2016:2), sustainability should be embedded into the
“organisation’s strategy fabric” and value creation process as it plays a vital part in
ensuring the organisation’s future resilience and performance.
c. According to Le Roux and Pretorius (2016) sustainability should be embedded into the
“organisation’s strategy fabric” and value creation process as it plays a vital part in
ensuring the organisation’s future resilience and performance.
d. According to Le Roux & Pretorius (2016:2) sustainability should be embedded into the
“organisation’s strategy fabric” and value creation process as it plays a vital part in
ensuring the organisation’s future resilience and performance.

10. Which statement about in-text referencing is incorrect?

a. I only need to in-text reference once at the end of a paragraph to acknowledge where the
source comes from.
b. If you have written a whole paragraph of 4-5 sentences, using information from a specific
source, and have only in-text referenced once, then you have committed plagiarism.
c. I need to reference every time I paraphrase a sentence.
d. If it is not my original idea, then I need to reference.

Total: [10]

[End of MCQ section. Question 3 begins on the next page].

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Question 3:
3. Critically discuss the difference between the inside-out versus outside-in perspectives
when managing strategically. As part of your discussion, identify which one of these
perspectives was prioritized by Theo Baloyi when he first started his business and then apply
it to the Bathu Shoes case study.

You need to support your discussion by integrating the relevant theory in your discussion
with practical examples from the case study.

<Your answer should be 1 ½ pages> Total: [14]

Question 4:
4. Critically discuss the role of embedding local context in strategy. In your discussion refer to
Bertels and Dobson’s ‘nested system’ view of business strategy (Louw & Venter, 2019:66,
figure 2.2) and apply this nested system view of strategy to the Bathu case study.

You need to support your discussion by integrating the relevant theory in your discussion with
practical examples from the case study.

In addition to incorporating and referencing theory from your prescribed material into your
answer for Question 4, you must locate, incorporate and reference 1 (one) applicable
academic article of your choice (published after 2017) from the Unisa library into your
discussion.
<Your answer should be 1 ½ page> Total: [14]

Question 5:
5. Theo Baloyi has hired you as a strategic management consultant to assist him in future
strategic decision making for his business: Bathu Shoes. Advise Theo Baloyi on how he can
improve the quality and efficiency of his strategic decision making and support your
discussion by integrating appropriate practical examples in your application and synthesis of
the relevant theory.

You need to support your analysis by integrating the relevant theory in your discussion with
practical examples from the case study.

<Your answer should be 1 page> Total: [10]

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 MNG4801/102/0/2023
Question 6: (Compulsory Graded online activity):

6. The compulsory graded activity linked to Lesson 3 (refer to MNG4801 module site) must be
included in assignment 01 as Question 6. This activity contributes towards the total mark of
assignment 01 and cannot be captured or graded separately. Follow these instructions:

➢ Go to the discussion forum on the myUnisa site titled “Graded activity: Strategic
direction” (Assignment 1 Graded activity from Lesson 3)” and complete the graded activity
(instructions are in Lesson 3).
➢ Insert (not embedded file) three (3) screenshots of the answers you have provided to the
three online questions that were posted on the discussion forum activity in your assignment.
NB: Make sure we can see your name next to your post on the screenshot as proof that you
answered the question.

Total: [12]

Question 7:
7. Briefly answer these reflection questions:
• Do you feel that you have achieved the learning outcomes in the assignment?
• In what way did this assignment contribute to your understanding of the course and
concepts?
Total: [5]

Technical requirements:

• Table of contents
• Short overall introduction to assignment
• Structure, academic writing style
• Short overall conclusion to the assignment
• Technical specifications
• In-text references Harvard method
• List of references Harvard method
Total: [5]

TOTAL = [70]

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ANNEXURE B: DECLARATION

I (your full name and surname) Siyabonga Ngwane ,

student number 20264925 hereby declare:

- I have read the TUT 101 in detail and understand the procedures I need to follow
regarding the submission of my assignment. I am aware of and accept the
consequences for late submissions and for not following the assignment procedures.

- I declare that this assignment is my own work and that all sources used or quoted are
indicated and acknowledged both in text and in full references. I also declare that I have
not copied (partially or in full) another student(s) or third-party’s work or allowed another
student(s) to copy my work (partially or in full).

- I have read and understood Unisa’s policy on plagiarism, available on myUnisa

(https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/myUnisa
/default/Assignments-&-Examination/Assignments/Plagiarism) and I have read and understood the
Powerpoint Presentation and other resources on Plagiarism provided to me on the
MNG4801-2023-Y site.

- I accept responsibility to categorically adhere to Unisa Academic integrity and

Plagiarism policies and their expectations.

- Lastly, I am fully aware that if I am found in breach of Unisa’s policies, I will not only be
penalized with a mark of zero but I will be reported to the Student Disciplinary
Department which could result in suspension or expulsion from UNISA.

03-03-2023
Signature / typed name Date

Should you require assistance to better understand these expectations – please contact the
lecturer because “I did not know” and “I did not understand” will not be acceptable excuses.

YOUR ASSIGNMENT WILL NOT BE MARKED UNLESS THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBMITTED

WITHIN YOUR ASSIGNMENT (IN QUESTION 1) – NOT AN EMBEDDED FILE. See MYUNISA
for an Electronic version of this Declaration.

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 MNG4801/101/0/2023

ANNEXURE C: BATHU SHOES CASE STUDY (ASSIGNMENT 1)

Bathu Shoes: An African Sneaker Story

Theo Baloyi is the founder and owner of the highly successful South African footwear brand Bathu
Shoes. The word bathu is South African township slang for “shoes” (Hugo, 2020) and Theo chose
this name for his shoe brand in 2015, when he started his company in the heart of the Alexandra
township with the aim of proudly telling an untold South African township story to the world (SME
Tech Guru, 2019).

Baloyi had no prior experience in footwear and retail. In fact, he was an accountant by profession,
having worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers for five years in asset management, strategy and
financial management (Kamogelo, 2021). However, through hard work and dedication, Theo was
able to grow Bathu from just an idea to a business that now sells 15 000 pairs of sneakers per
month (Hugo, 2020). Maturing the business was intentional and proactive (Hugo, 2020) and the
vision of Theo and Bathu was to create an African footprint across the globe (Ntobela, 2020).

Early days – the birth of Bathu

In 2009, Theo Baloyi relocated to stay with his uncle in Alexandra while studying for his BCom
accounting degree. After graduating, he was presented with an opportunity to start a job at one of
the top accounting and advisory firms in the world, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) (Ntobela,
2020). He was based in South Africa for two years and then seconded to the Middle East for three
years, and it was during this period that he conceived his idea for his business (Ntobela, 2020).
Theo Baloyi was walking around the airport in Dubai on one of his work trips abroad and one store
caught his attention as people were constantly going in and out of the store (Hugo, 2020). He went
into the store and chatted with the owner. “We had a long conversation about business and the
story he was telling through his business, exposing French culture to everyone who came to his
store.” Baloyi said that the encounter made him think about the kind of stories Africans are telling
through business (Ngwadla, 2019). During his travels, Baloyi, a self-proclaimed sneakerhead who
owned a cupboard full of sneakers, noticed that not one of them was an African brand (Hugo,
2020). The idea of an African sneaker brand portraying an authentic African story began to take
shape in his mind (Ntobela, 2020). He explains, “I thought about what we as South Africans are
doing to tell our stories” (Hugo, 2020). He decided that his own shoe brand with an African narrative
was the solution.

His accounting experience helped Theo in terms of the extensive involvement he had with business
and finance modelling in corporate environments, and he explains, “I did 18 months of research
and development, which included coming up with proof of concept, quality testing and quality
assurance” (Hugo, 2020). From the beginning, Theo was very strategic in terms of his research,
how to position his branding and how to manufacture his products, learning about the technicalities
of shoe manufacturing. Baloyi mentions that he had a lot to learn (Hugo, 2020) and the Bathu story
is one of perseverance “following your dreams and doing something you are passionate about”
(Ntobela, 2020).

Getting the business off the ground, however, came with its challenges. One key challenge was
sneaker manufacturing in an unestablished market and having to deal with delays often detrimental
to efficiency and the product (Hugo, 2020). Theo explains, “Sometimes we have a great design –
45
innovative and different – but the factory either doesn’t have the right equipment; and if they can
source it, it may take seven to eight weeks to arrive” (Hugo, 2020). He further explains that in South
Africa, it takes about eight months to manufacture a new shoe whereas in the East, this usually
takes only four weeks. Also, while South African factories can buy expensive equipment to
manufacture according to specific requirements, the trends and styles may no longer be current
when the product is completed (Hugo, 2020). In addition to these challenges, the factory in Durban
where the sneakers are now made, rejected Theo’s idea 16 times because of the mesh fabric they
wanted to use (Ngwadla, 2020). A lot of sneakers incorporated mesh material; however, their
sneakers were made entirely from mesh and the factory was initially sceptical as they had not seen
a mesh-only concept before. Theo says that there were issues even before the first proof of concept
went into production. At the time, the factory had a minimum order requirement of 1 200 pairs of
shoes, while Baloyi wanted to start with manufacturing just 100 pairs. Theo explains that it took a
lot of negotiation. “They declined to help me until I convinced them to believe in the brand and that
I would be back with big orders once we got going,” he says. His perseverance paid off and once
the management of the factory had been convinced and production went ahead, it was all systems
go (Ngwadla, 2020).

The idea behind the flagship mesh design was driven by a sock trend “where sock collectors were
showing off colourful and busy patterns above their ankles” (Hugo, 2020). The all-mesh design
shoe model enables people to display their socks while wearing shoes. Theo says it took 21
samples before the team were happy with the outcome. They first created 100 pairs of the shoes
and sold them to friends. Then in 2017, Bathu sealed their first deal with a corporate collaboration
with an incubation hub in Johannesburg, which subsequently led to the release of a further 10 000
pairs of Mesh Edition sneakers (Hugo, 2020). On the day of the launch, the traffic to the Bathu
website caused it to crash. Baloyi says “everyone on the internet was talking about the brand” and
the factory orders of 1 000 became 3 000 and then 4 000. According to Baloyi, a big reason for
this was because of influencer marketing and free public relations through media channels sharing
the brand’s story: “I got a lot of social currency and mobility on social media through people buying
it and posting reviews” (Hugo, 2020).

In January 2020, Bathu acquired a 3700 square metre warehouse in Centurion with 80% of its staff
based in Alexandra, where he had spent his student life living with his uncle. Through employing
staff from Alexandra, Theo Baloyi hopes to combat the disastrous local unemployment figures by
creating jobs and reigniting hope in families and individuals (Ntobela, 2020). Theo Baloyi’s target
is to eventually have 100% of his staff based in Alexandra. He hopes to achieve this through
continuing to use an end-to-end value chain approach encompassing a business model that
maintains its own vertical integration through direct production, sales, distribution and logistics.
Theo says that one of his greatest rewards is being able to employ staff from Alexandra where he
lived for a while. “My mother is so proud of me – she often reminds me of how I used to annoy her
in Grade 11, telling her that one day I’m going to make it big and make her proud. I’d tell her this
every Saturday. Now we laugh about it. I’m so grateful for everything” (Ngwadla, 2019).

The future of Bathu

Bathu shoes opened most of its stores in the middle of the pandemic and is growing amid stiff
competition from international fast-fashion brands like Zara and H&M in South Africa (Buthelezi,
2021). In 2021, the business grew its revenue by 80% year-on-year and registered about 150 000
visits per month on its online store from customers in other countries such as Kenya, the Middle
East, the United States and Australia (Buthelezi, 2021). This growth can be attributed to growing
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local demand, the quality of the sneakers and the opening of stores across the country (Mbhele,
2021).

When asked about the increase of local competitors such as Drip Footwear, which has a deal with
Cassper Nyovest, Baloyi replies, “We are so happy they are joining the narrative we have been
trying to push of African sneaker brands and African footwear. We can both strive in the same
direction. Europe has so many sneaker brands, similar to South America. The sky is so big, that
each and everyone can fly. So, the same can be said in Africa, for Bathu, Drip and many others”
(Mbhele, 2021). Theo says he has found his purpose and is thriving in his second career as one
of Mzansi’s top fashion entrepreneurs (Ngwadla, 2019). Bathu’s strategy has always been to
position the brand across Africa, and they have already opened retail stores in Botswana (Ntobela,
2020). Business owner Theo acknowledges that “this is bigger than me” and adds that “it’s a South
African story. I might have initiated it, but it doesn’t belong to me. It belongs to all of us”.

References
Buthelezi, L. 2021. 30 stores without funding: How Bathu Shoes soared and opened 24 branches
during a pandemic. [Online] Available from: https://www.news24.com/fin24/companies/retail/30-
stores-without-funding-how-bathu-shoes-soared-and-opened-24-branches-during-a-pandemic-
20211006 [Accessed: 25/07/2022].

Hugo, S. 2020. An African sneaker brand: Founder of Bathu explains how he built his business.
[Online] Available from: https://www.howwemadeitinafrica.com/an-african-sneaker-brand-founder-
of-bathu-explains-how-he-built-his-business/74205/ [Accessed: 18/07/2022].

Kamogelo, T. 2021. Bathu by Baloyi: An original South African sneaker brand story. [Online]
Available from: https://hyperlinkafrica.com/bathu-by-baloyi-an-original-south-african-sneaker-
brand-story/ [Accessed: 23/08/2021].

Mbhele, S. 2021. How Bathu sneakers grew turnover 73% in 2022. [Online] Available from:
https://www.citizen.co.za/lifestyle/2548162/how-bathu-got-50-percent-turnover-growth/
[Accessed: 25/07/2022].

Ngwadla, N. 2019. Entrepreneur Theo Baloyi on making over R18m selling sneakers. [Online]
Available from: https://www.news24.com/drum/Inspiration/hitting-his-stride-20190628 [Accessed:
23/08/2021].

Ntobela, S. 2020. Entrepreneur: Theo Baloyi, founder of Bathu Shoes. [Online] Available from:
https://www.businesslive.co.za/fm/fm-fox/entrepreneurs/2020-01-30-entrepreneur-theo-baloyi-
founder-of-bathu-shoes/ [Accessed: 23/08/2021].

SME Tech guru. 2019. Opel & Bathu launch the most expensive, most exclusive sneaker in Mzansi.
[Online] Available from: https://www.smetechguru.co.za/opel-bathu-launch-the-most-expensive-
most-exclusive-sneaker-in-mzansi/ [Accessed: 23/08/2021].

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ANNEXURE D: COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

CEMS COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

Step 1 Any module related (academic) complaint must first be
thoroughly discussed with the relevant module lecturer to Module
resolve the matter. lecturer
Step 2 If the matter cannot be resolved through a discussion with the lecturer,
students can approach the Chair of the relevant department. Please note
that complaints will be referred back to the lecturer if the lecturer has not
been afforded an opportunity to respond. Chair of
Step 3 If students are not satisfied with the resolution from the Chair of the Department
department, they have the option to direct the complaint to the office of the
School Director. Please note that complaints will be referred back to the
lecturer at this step too, if the lecturer has not been afforded an opportunity
to respond.
School
Step 4 If students are not satisfied with the resolution from the School Director, Director
they have the option to direct the complaint to the office of the Executive
Dean.

Executive
If the complaint relates to postgraduate affairs, it will be
investigated by the Head of Postgraduate Studies and Research Dean
on behalf of the Executive Dean and provide feedback to both
the student and the Dean.

Students may also use the following College mailboxes for any type of enquiry or complaint:

- cemsenquiries@unisa.ac.za (general academic enquiries)

- cemsqa@unisa.ac.za (quality issues)

Any academic complaint received in these mailboxes will be escalated to either the Chair of the Department or the Director of the
School.

Administrative enquiries and/or complaints must be directed to the correct administrative department:

https://staff.unisa.ac.za/sites/intranet/default/Services-&-Groups/Help-a-student

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