The level of IT spendings in South Africa is forecast to increase at a higher pace than the economy in 2020. Although the general state of the economy has a direct impact on the growth of the ICT sector, its customers continue to invest in technology and the sector consistently shows a growth rate that is higher than GDP. 

Cybersecurity is a high priority, with global statistics indicating that South Africa is the third most targeted country in the world for cyber-attacks. Alleged IT-related procurement irregularities revealed through a number of commissions of inquiry and investigations continue to affect the reputation of some industry players. It is estimated that there are over 13,000 IT companies and over 3,000 electronics companies in South Africa with the vast majority being small companies employing less than 50 people according to Globe-News Wire.

Why working with a South African IT company

New and growing trends will provide significant opportunities for small and large players in the sector. These include growth in telecommunications, data center revenues and artificial intelligence, and the internet of things, where start-ups are expected to lead innovation. Digital transformation to improve customer experiences and online purchasing, fintech banking, blockchain, augmented reality and virtual reality are some of the technologies that will disrupt the South African ICT industry in 2019. 

The industry is characterized by consolidation and convergence of companies within the IT sector, and between companies in the IT and telecommunications sectors.

What you should be aware of when working with South-African IT companies

The growth projections of the IT market could be higher were it not for certain factors that seem to constrain it, including the cost sensitivity of customers, low expenditure by the public sector, market maturity, and bigger companies sourcing directly from the original equipment manufacturers. 

 IT market growth is also impeded by bigger companies that bypass IT vendors and go directly to OEMs for products and services. This impacts negatively on smaller companies that provide niche services within the broader IT sector. 

How reliable are South African IT companies

Despite the challenges facing the IT sector, its products and services have become part and parcel of everyday business and social life. The fast pace of innovation helps the sector to remain relevant while shaping the future of business and society. 

How does the South-African IT industry relate to the neighboring countries?

The South African IT market, comprising of hardware, packaged software and IT services submarkets, is regarded as one of the most developed and sophisticated within the continent. South African IT companies rank among world leaders in areas such as mobile software, electronic banking services, pre-payment, revenue management, fraud prevention systems, and the manufacture of set-top boxes according to a report provided by the South-African Department of Communications. 

Digital strategy is a comprehensive plan that guides businesses in leveraging digital technologies and platforms to achieve their goals. It involves determining how to effectively use online channels to reach target audiences, enhance brand visibility, and drive growth. 

Services related to digital strategy encompass a wide range of activities, including content marketing, social media marketing, email marketing, and online advertising, aimed at achieving business goals through effective online presence and engagement.

In the digital age, businesses need a variety of strategies and tactics to succeed, which is collectively known as digital strategy. It includes defining the target audience, selecting the right digital platforms, creating engaging content, and measuring performance to ensure objectives are met. Services related to Digital Strategy range from content marketing and social media strategy to email marketing and online advertising.

Companies providing Digital Strategy services use a variety of tools and technologies. These may include analytics platforms like Google Analytics to measure website performance, social media management tools like Hootsuite for scheduling and monitoring posts, and marketing automation software like HubSpot for managing email campaigns and lead nurturing.

If a company is looking for help with their digital strategy, they can choose to partner with specialized IT companies or digital agencies. Specialized IT companies provide extensive knowledge and experience in creating successful digital plans while digital agencies, on the other hand, may provide a broader suite of digital services, making them suitable for businesses seeking comprehensive digital solutions.

When businesses make use of Digital Strategy services, they can gain many advantages in the digital world. A carefully planned strategy helps businesses to target the right audience effectively, resulting in higher engagement and more conversions. It also provides a clear roadmap for online activities, allowing businesses to allocate resources more efficiently. Additionally, a solid digital strategy keeps businesses adaptable, enabling them to respond effectively to changing market trends.

Selecting the right digital strategy service provider is crucial for achieving optimal results. Look for providers with proven expertise in designing effective digital strategies tailored to your industry and audience. Communication and a collaborative approach are key, so choose a provider that understands your goals and can effectively execute your vision.