VANDERBIJLPARK. – Dr Herman Smit recently graduated with a PhD from the North-West University after completing research towards aiding metals manufacturers in South Africa.

The research was conceptualised after realising the dire situation that metals manufacturers find themselves in because of international competition and some cheaper product imports. His thesis is titled: A competitive intelligence framework for the sustainability of metals manufacturers in South Africa.

An explanatory sequential mixed-method research strategy was followed, where questionnaires were completed by employees, followed by semi-structured interviews with specialists in the South African metals industry. Within the theoretical context of the study, the key contribution is that a new customised competitive intelligence framework is proposed that may support firms in this industry to improve their competitiveness to enhance their sustainability.

The promoter and co-promoter to this research were Prof Dr Merwe Oberholzer and Prof Dr Pieter Buys.

Dr Smit can be contacted at hermansmit379@gmail.com for more information about the research or the application thereof for metals manufacturers.