REGENT Business School launched its newly accredited Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in 2021. In no time, aspirant doctoral students joined the programme and started the hard research work that resulted in 5 outstanding theses in 2024. The topics are diverse, ranging from Firm Innovativeness in the Fitness Industry to Business Modelling in Private Health Practices and the Economic Viability of Sub-Acute Home Healthcare, an Adaptive Information Technology Service Management Reference Model and a Social Entrepreneurship Sustainability Framework for Not-for-Profit Organisations, but they all have one thing in common – they sought to solve deep-seated problems in the field of business, healthcare, technology and not-for-profit organisations. High level problem-solving is in keeping with the purpose of a Doctor of Business Administration degree. REGENT is proud to present these first doctoral candidates and is particularly pleased with the quality of the contributions their theses make in their respective fields. Our thanks go to the Doctoral Office, the supervisors and support staff to help REGENT reach this important milestone.
Doctor of Business Administration Degree - Graduates
Ryan Moodley
Supervisor: Dr Rishaad Ebrahim
Title:Â Developing an Adaptive Information Technology Service Management Reference Model
Organisations face a challenge in realising the value of IT service management (ITSM) for digital transformation and service delivery. This study develops an adaptive ITSM reference model, empowering organisations to implement practices effectively amid digital transformation. It emphasises the importance of robust ITSM strategies for successful digital transformation and integration of modern technologies. By contributing to the understanding of ITSM, the study emphasises its pivotal role in navigating digital complexities. With a holistic approach, it highlights key constructs such as Thought Leadership, Digital Innovation, Sustainability, Customer Experience, Adoption Management, and Communication, integrated into the proposed adaptive ITSM reference model.
Anthony Diesel
Supervisor:Â Prof Robert P. Machera (PhD)
Title: A Social Entrepreneurship Sustainability Framework for Not-for-Profit Organisations in South Africa
The main thesis delves into South African social entrepreneurship, proposing a sustainable business model for Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs). It advocates transitioning from charity based NPOs to hybrid social enterprise models, integrating the Ubuntu philosophy. The study reveals the importance of social entrepreneurship as pivotal, addressing societal challenges with community support, governance, leadership, and education. Key pillars of Share, Grow, Develop, Empower, Create and Innovate (SGDECI) are uncovered, emphasising sustained funding, community involvement and hybrid models for NPO success. This research lays the groundwork for policy support to foster transformative change in South African NPO sector.
Jitesh Jared Surujparsad Lalaram
Supervisor: Dr Nellie Naranjee
Title: Business Modelling: Enhancing Market Positioning in Private Medical Practices, Cape Town, South Africa
This study is about the need for medical doctors in private practice in South Africa to adapt their business models in response to competition and disruptions in the healthcare sector. It explores challenges and identifies strategies to improve profitability, financial management, ICT integration, collaboration, and diverse payment alternatives. The findings highlighted the importance of transparent communication and using automation tools for optimising administrative tasks. In addition to the recommendations, two distinct business models were developed, including seven guiding principles for establishing private medical practices: target market, service range, pricing schedule, marketing strategy, technology identification, team construction, and financial strategy.