Barriers to implementation of corporate sustainability strategies in South African IT companies
Date
2017
Authors
Nabee, Yusuf
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Abstract
Corporate sustainability is increasingly becoming an important discussion for companies. Some research suggests that ICT companies in South Africa lag their counterparts in the rest of the world and in other sectors. However, there has been very little research done to understand the reasons for this. This research therefore aims to understand the key enabling factors and the key barriers to the adoption and implementation of corporate sustainability strategies in South Africa. 18 Semi structured interviews were conducted representing 11 companies within the ICT sector in South Africa. Using thematic analysis, 8 factors were identified that influence the adoption and implementation of corporate sustainability strategies amongst ICT companies in South Africa. The key enablers were identified to be increasing market demand from customers and industry competition, as well as pressure from government through legislation. Key barriers were identified to include ineffective communication, lack of standardized holistic reporting for the sector, and lack of measurement of second and third order impact of the sector. The research further identified that while external factors are driving adoption, implementation is dependent on a number of internal variables including shareholder support and lack of a clearly defined and focused strategy. The research offers insight into the factors required to successfully adopt and implement corporate sustainability strategies in the ICT sector in South Africa and can be used by companies in the sector as well as stakeholders to improve corporate sustainability practices.
Description
MBA Thesis
Keywords
Social responsibility of business,Sustainable development,Corporate governance,Corporation reportsInformation technology -- South Africa,