Page 216 - UKZN Proceedings of the Conference Report

table 4: rotated components loadings (varimax)
variable name
Comp1
Comp2
Comp3
unexplained
B6_Innov_Newequip
0.2242
-01389
0.3444
0.6102
B6_Innov_Newtech
-0.0559
0.0947
0.4222
0.5995
B6_Innov_NewSupp
0.3645
0.0509
0.1199
0.4548
B6_Innov_IK
0.506
-0.1308
-0.0217
0.4142
B6_Innov_trainStaff
0.4451
0.0589
-0.002
0.3646
B6_Innov_InfrasChanges
-0.0638
0.2111
0.4253
0.4434
B6_Innov_Custdem
0.4159
-0.0742
0.1146
0.4821
B6_Innov_techupgrade
0.0161
0.3263
0.1868
0.5476
B6_Innov_Searching
-0.0546
0.4146
0.1846
0.451
B6_Innov_Knowhow
0.3587
0.2971
-0.2149
0.3109
B6_Innov_fapprent
-0.1123
0.5704
0.0317
0.3235
B6_Innov_onthejobLearn
0.1828
0.4486
-0.3003
0.3779
B6_Innov_unexdiscov
0.0684
-0.0732
0.5365
0.4265
Component 1: Knowledge, Linkages & Training
This component highlights traditional and experiential aspects of innovation, with strong positive loadings observed in variables such as Indigenous Knowledge (0.506), Training Staff (0.445), Customer Demand (0.416), New Suppliers (0.365), and Know-How (0.359). These factors collectively emphasise the role of indigenous knowledge, employee training, and the interplay between customer needs and supplier dynamics in fostering innovation.
Component 2: Formal learning & Development
Reflecting structured learning processes, this component is characterised by strong positive loadings on Formal Apprenticeship (0.570), On-the-Job-Learning (0.449), and Searching for Knowledge (0.415). A moderately strong loading for Technology Upgrade (0.326) further underscores the significance of systematic training and knowledge acquisition in driving innovation with formalised settings.
Component 3: Technical Infrastructure
This component captures technological and physical infrastructure enhancements, with strong positive loadings for Unexpected Discoveries (0.537), Infrastructure Changes (0.425), and New Technology (0.422). A slightly weaker but relevant loading for New Equipment (0.344) indicates the combined influence of planned improvements and serendipitous innovations in shaping the technical underpinnings of innovation.
The PCA analysis indicates that the characteristics of innovation, within the construction LIPS in the study area can be categorised into three key dimensions: Knowledge, Linkages & Training, Formal Learning & Development, and Technical Infrastructure.
discussion and conclusion
The reliance on informal learning for skills acquisition highlights a potential skills gap in the informal construction sector. The informal construction businesses faced challenges related to low educational levels, and the low-income market, including low profit margins and customers not paying for services, constraining business growth and sustainability. The informal construction businesses in Sweetwaters encountered a wide range of challenges, encompassing political, owner/manager, economic, and environmental factors.
Despite the numerous obstacles, most factors did not significantly influence innovation within the informal construction sector. While present, economic and environmental barriers had a relatively minor impact on innovation, both in the informal construction sector and across the broader sample. The limited impact of most obstacles suggests that informal construction businesses in Sweetwaters are highly resilient and adaptable. They may have developed strategies to overcome these challenges and continue innovating.
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