The 2005 Technology Top 100 Awards Programme has drawn a record number of entries.
The large increase of entries from start-up organisations "signals a prosperous future for SA as a knowledge-based economy", says TT100 general manager, Stephan Lamprecht.
Now in its 15th year, TT100 recognises organisations that are in the business of using or developing technology, having progressed beyond mere business plans or ideas, and able to clearly show commercial activity. The programme also recognises and rewards large and medium organisations that excel in the management of technology and innovation.
The programme is funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) as well as Eskom. According to Lamprecht, TT100 serves as a barometer for the DST of the level and type of science and technology activity in the South African economy.
This year sees the largest entry ever from large enterprises, says Lamprecht. Entrants include MWEB, Softline Pastel, Altech (including its various divisions such as Namitech), Prism, Grintek and ATE. Entries span all sectors of the economy. Major R&D initiatives such as the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor have also entered.
Innovation is not limited to the traditional technology-based organisations, notes Lamprecht. Entries have been received from university technology departments as well as from science councils. Entries from business organisations like Phumelela Gaming and Leisure (Africa`s biggest horse racing betting company) shows the importance of skilfully managing technology and innovation is gaining prominence as a critical area of management attention.
While SAA was on strike, competitor Kulula entered the awards, building on its previous success of being a TT100 finalist.
This year`s entrants show significant progress in the development of small, micro and medium enterprises as well as the empowerment of the previously disadvantaged involved in the knowledge economy, says Lamprecht. The adjudication process includes evaluation of each entrant`s submission and interviews conducted by technology and business professionals.
The winners will be announced at the TT100 National Awards Banquet in November, hosted by the minister of science and technology, Mosibudi Mangena.
TT100 is a division of Da Vinci Integration Enterprises and the adjudication of entries takes place with the intellectual input and guidance of the Da Vinci Institute for the Management of Technology and Innovation.
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