Abstract:
The scope of the investigation of elements that counteract management development
at filling stations was very wide because a large number of elements had to be
singled out and described in detail.
Specific areas were identified for further study after which perceptions about
entrepreneurs had to be tested and analysed statistically. These statistics are part
of the research for this thesis and intended researchers of this and other related
areas should be able to utilise these fruitfully.
Specific problem areas came to the fore. Such elements are singled out briefly and
recommendations regarding improved circumstances are made.
In South Africa, filling stations and especially small businesses are not only faced
with a crisis but also with challenges as a result of the unique business environment
in this country. On the one hand, entrepreneurs experience an extensive shortage
of schooled and well-trained employees who are suitable for employment. On the other hand, there is extensive unemployment among unschooled, (untrained)
employees.
It is this researcher's opinion that South Africa is being confronted with great
challenges including the fact that, within the filling station enterprise, there should be
serious attempts to increase productivity. In order to overcome this problem,
employees should not only be trained and developed, there is also an extensive
shortage of properly schooled entrepreneurs and supervisors.
Training and development are the responsibilities of the relevant business
management. During the research phase of this study, entrepreneurs were
questioned on which of the following problems filling stations experience most often.
A few problem areas were named and were identified through questionnaires after
which respondents reacted to a five-point scale.
