Bridging digital divide by 2010

The digital divide is widely accepted as a major challenge within developing markets like SA. As the country prepares to host the FIFA World Cup in 2010, there is renewed urgency to narrow this digital gap.

It is the revamped outsourcing business model that could very well lead the way in terms of corporate development and digital communications availability.

There is no doubt that ICT represents one of the key pillars in the foundation on which the country's World Cup strategy is built.

Widely implemented digital infrastructure and reliable connectivity is critical if SA is to provide effective communications - both internally and externally - during the global tournament.

One of the main obstacles to addressing the digital divide is that of being able to quantify the full extent of the challenge. Access to communications resources is at the top of the list of priorities, but this is placed alongside the need for more power sources, enhanced service delivery, etc.

The scenario is particularly relevant to those operating within the small-to-medium category. This is where the trend to outsource the management and maintenance of ICT infrastructure really comes to the fore.

Corporate SA has to expect an increase in general business activity, a higher level of foreign interest and greater competition. The ability to keep focused on core offering and service, without having to dip into key resources to manage IT and communications infrastructure, will result in definite competitive advantage.

Partnership with credible, established service providers that have the ability, experience and resources to make a difference, is what will differentiate businesses going forward.

The South African market, along with its emerging Africa counterparts, is hungry for centralised services that incorporate advanced applications, multifunctional/multimedia systems and services, and fully prepare the investor to compete digitally with local and foreign entities.

There is a renewed interest in integrated networked services across the continent. Emerging markets require a blend of Internet, e-mail, VOIP, VPN, mobile and wireless, and related telecommunications services. This is mission-critical if operations are to be established and be competitive.

Although SA is not where it should be in terms of Internet-based services and immediate, hassle-free provision of precious utility services like water and electricity, progress is being made.

There is no doubt that ICT represents one of the key pillars in the foundation on which the country's World Cup strategy is built.

Robert Sussman, founder and MD of Integr8 IT

It is encouraging to see the many forums being established and initiatives in place that are focused on aggressively transferring the benefit of strategic corporate social responsibility programmes, specifically those geared towards increased infrastructure, training and community resource development.

This is the front line of corporate contribution towards the 2010 campaign. While the right to host this prestigious competition equates to a major socio-economic boost, it ensures all stakeholders remain focused on one key goal. And development in technology is a major driving force.

For example, there is rapid growth in the adoption and use of wireless data networks and these will soon be able to run voice. WiMax is now a reality in the country and this technology has already been rolled out in some regions.

With efforts gaining momentum, it is prudent to keep in mind aspects that could become barriers. The first of these potential obstacles is the issue of sustainability.

Recent media reports say the competition will equate to over R50 billion to the country's GDP between 2006 and 2010. While there is the likelihood that these estimates and figures will change in the run-up to the Cup, one can safely surmise there will be an impact made on the economy.

The fact is we need to look beyond 2010 - it is all good and well being prepared for this competition, but progress made will mean little if the benefits can no longer be transferred.

We need to invest heavily in job creation, skills development and effective recruitment. While it is exciting to apply new systems, to refurbish existing infrastructures and revamp networks, services and support resources, all of this requires people.

SA has the human capital - it has the skills base. Despite many skilled individuals and professionals leaving the country, there are just as many who have returned. The local market reflects a deeper appreciation for the need to incentivise workers.

Another positive point that we should concentrate on is that the digital divide is recognised and is being addressed.

Corporate social awareness programmes and broad-based black economic empowerment - incorporating learnerships - are the main drivers in the quest to build up the country's infrastructure and services within the public sector.

It is a grand opportunity, the scale of which may not happen again in this region for some time. Let us grab hold of it.