South Africa’s expanding culture of innovation-through-technology

According to a report released in 2016 by the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, South Africa ranks 30 out of 56 countries for “worldwide innovation influence”. A driver behind this is the significant role played by the public and private sectors in fast-tracking digital migration. South Africa, as one of several African countries striving for leadership in innovation, is committed to providing a firm foundation for companies actively looking to harness the latest technology breakthroughs.

Innovation through technology has become a powerful modus operandi for organisational success, with companies increasingly tapping into artificial intelligence; biotech; fintech; big data analytics; renewable energy solutions, mobile apps and more – the list is endless. Emerging technology not only provides value to these organisations but to their customers and stakeholders by extension.

Companies at the forefront of technological innovation right now include 2cana Solutions, ABSA Life, Accsys, ACWA Power Africa, Corex, Dell Computers, GoIndustry DoveBid SA, LexisNexis South Africa, Neo Technologies and Sentech Ltd – the finalists for 2016’s National Business Awards’ Innovation through Technology Award.

2016’s ceremony, which took place on 17 November, showcased these business leaders alongside those in other categories, who likewise exhibit high growth potential and the capacity to add substantial economic value by creating high-value job opportunities.

“The Innovation through Technology Award category, as part of the National Business Awards, awarded first place to a dynamic company that demonstrates a level of innovation capable of disrupting the way its respective industry operates, locally or even internationally”, said Karla Fletcher, Director of Topco Media, which hosted the National Business Awards.

The Award was hotly contested, with all of the finalists demonstrating improved productivity, price, quality and efficiency that enhance the competitiveness of the broader economy as an innovation engine. The systems and approaches they have put in place are advancing their respected industries in dynamic and surprising ways. Should we be surprised? After all, this is the country that birthed Elon Musk; arguably this century’s greatest technology innovator.

Go to the National Business Awards & Conference website to view full details of the winners & event.

To gain business insight directly from equally trailblazing companies, book your 2017 Awards table now on http://nbac.co.za or through Angelique Edwards, Topco Marketing Manager, on 086 000 9590 or angelique.edwards@topco.co.za.