Developing a conceptual model for transformation at the South African Military Academy : the Ubuntu approach

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The initial conceptual framework for transformation proposes the context (why), thecontent (what), and the process (how) as three dimensions of transformation that arealways present. A distinction is made between external and internal triggers oftransformation, and information is provided on the challenges posed by, amongothers, the knowledge society, globalisation, and changing market conditions thatrequire companies to become learning organisations staffed by empoweredknowledge workers.Literature study on transformation clearly shows that transformation brings aboutchange. There are different models on transformation and this shows that there aredifferent approaches to transformation.Ubuntu should be introduced as a way forward for the South African MilitaryAcademy (SAMA) to deal with transformation issues. Ubuntu is more concern aboutthe wellbeing of the people and their morale during and after transformation has beenimplemented.Subsequently, a conceptual model for transformation is proposed in which genericelements of the 'why, 'what, and 'how dimensions are included. The SAMAmodel is developed to fit the scope of a conceptual model, and to be in line withwhat is generally proposed in the literature for organisations that want to transformin order to become market leaders and enhance long-term goals.Conclusions drawn from the ongoing SAMA transformation process are that its aimsand principles are not in line with what appears to be required in creating aninnovative learning organisation. With regard to the 'how of transformation, it isfound that improvement is still needed to the processes to change attitudes, mindsets,and styles on the part of managers as well as employees that might inhibitempowerment and stifle creativity and innovation.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University