June 2010

While the stark reality of our current footballing skills may have been exposed, nobody can be in any doubt that as a nation, South Africa has demonstrated its ability to perform to international standards. The Reya Vaya, Fan Parks and Park and Ride facilities have been most impressive, despite the recent Reya Vaya strike.

This month, we look at quality, not only in terms of product but the quality of service delivery. "Quality comes first, even before volume. Quality is for everybody, every time and everywhere," says Renault's Tim Marriott.
This a wonderful idea for all South African people to adopt, with quality service coming first, before personal, political or social advantage. If we were all ‘proudly South African' about the quality of service offered, surely a better society would emerge? Sadly, in general, our service delivery quality, which is entirely dependent on our attitudes and mindsets, is poor.

The Renault campaign to change service attitude is three pronged: Putting pressure on staff to deliver to advertised expectations; giving customers the opportunity to express their feelings; and developing pride in the staff of each dealership.
These are again reflected as components of our World Cup campaign. We are delivering based on the advertised expectations of foreign guests; who are far more willing to express dissatisfaction than we locals are. We are also experiencing a sense of pride in our country, a pride not limited or diminished by Bafana Bafana's performances.
Renault's quality service delivery campaign is not about the fuzzy marketing touches. It is also about making the best use of technology to make the job of delivery a quality service easier. This, too, is vital in the national context.
MechTech hopes that we can continue to focus on the quality of service long after the stadium lights have dimmed, the vuvuzelas are silenced and the tourists have left.

Our special report looks at a company that is working hard at reducing its carbon footprint - Mapungubwe Energy & Mining.

Mapungubwe Energy & Mining is able to supply top brands from leading European companies (left).

This month our cover story looks at the comprehensive Donaldson filtration range, which is currently protecting the engines of high-performance, off-road racing vehicles. Africa requires filtration solutions which will enhance working environments and extend the operating life of vehicles, machine and equipment. Donaldson's filtration products address these concerns with products and technologies that are at the leading edge of the filtration industry worldwide.