INS2603
Assignment 1 Semester 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: 1 April 2026
This document includes:
Helpful answers and guidelines
Detailed explanations and/ or calculations
References
Connect with the tutor on
+27 81 278 3372
, BALANCING UBUNTU PHILOSOPHY AND WESTERN MANAGEMENT
PRACTICES IN SOUTH AFRICAN ORGANISATIONS
1. INTRODUCTION
Management in an open system refers to the way an organisation interacts with its
environment while using resources such as people, information, and technology to
achieve its goals. It means that organisations do not operate in isolation, but are
influenced by social, economic, and cultural factors. Managers must therefore adapt
to changes and make decisions that respond to both internal and external conditions.
The philosophy of “I am because we are” is rooted in Ubuntu, which emphasises
human connection, respect, and collective well being. It means that a person’s
identity is shaped through relationships with others. In a management context, this
approach encourages teamwork, shared responsibility, and mutual support among
employees.
When these two ideas are combined, management becomes both goal driven and
people centred. This balance is important in South Africa, where organisations must
achieve efficiency while also respecting human dignity and cooperation (INS2603
Study Guide, 2020).
2. THE CHALLENGES
Managers in a South African Library and Information Services environment often
face tension when trying to balance Ubuntu values with structured Western
management practices. Each management function presents its own challenge when
applying both approaches.
Planning Challenge
Planning requires clear goals, budgets, and timelines. A challenge arises when
Ubuntu encourages consultation and consensus before decisions are made. For
example, a library manager may need to finalise a budget quickly, but staff expect to
be involved in discussions. This delays decision making and affects efficiency.
Organising Challenge
© Study Shack 2026. All rights Reserved +27 81 278 3372
Assignment 1 Semester 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: 1 April 2026
This document includes:
Helpful answers and guidelines
Detailed explanations and/ or calculations
References
Connect with the tutor on
+27 81 278 3372
, BALANCING UBUNTU PHILOSOPHY AND WESTERN MANAGEMENT
PRACTICES IN SOUTH AFRICAN ORGANISATIONS
1. INTRODUCTION
Management in an open system refers to the way an organisation interacts with its
environment while using resources such as people, information, and technology to
achieve its goals. It means that organisations do not operate in isolation, but are
influenced by social, economic, and cultural factors. Managers must therefore adapt
to changes and make decisions that respond to both internal and external conditions.
The philosophy of “I am because we are” is rooted in Ubuntu, which emphasises
human connection, respect, and collective well being. It means that a person’s
identity is shaped through relationships with others. In a management context, this
approach encourages teamwork, shared responsibility, and mutual support among
employees.
When these two ideas are combined, management becomes both goal driven and
people centred. This balance is important in South Africa, where organisations must
achieve efficiency while also respecting human dignity and cooperation (INS2603
Study Guide, 2020).
2. THE CHALLENGES
Managers in a South African Library and Information Services environment often
face tension when trying to balance Ubuntu values with structured Western
management practices. Each management function presents its own challenge when
applying both approaches.
Planning Challenge
Planning requires clear goals, budgets, and timelines. A challenge arises when
Ubuntu encourages consultation and consensus before decisions are made. For
example, a library manager may need to finalise a budget quickly, but staff expect to
be involved in discussions. This delays decision making and affects efficiency.
Organising Challenge
© Study Shack 2026. All rights Reserved +27 81 278 3372
