The impact of digital transformation in the South African ICT Telecoms industry Student name: Nompumelelo Mnguni

Abstract

This study aimed to explore how digital transformation impacts the South African ICT Telecoms industry while also determining the digital themes involved and the challenges that come with them to see if there is a potential for a competitive advantage. A quantitative survey research method was used to gather data from 123 ICT managers and senior employees of South African telecom companies. The outcome presents insights into the perceived significance of the different digital transformation themes; cloud computing and big data analytics are found to be strategically important. The digital skills gap, together with infrastructure limitations and regulatory challenges, is identified as a critical obstacle. In addition, the present study examines the perceived consequences of digital transformation initiatives on competitiveness in relation to efficiency, customer experience, and innovation. The study contributes to the existing body of literature by providing empirical evidence of the specific challenges and opportunities in the South African ICT Telecoms context that can help policymakers, industry leaders, and ICT professionals navigate the process of digital transformation. The conceptual framework also depicts the digital transformation themes and the mediating factors leading to competitiveness within the South African ICT Telecoms landscape. Last, the survey questions were developed to capture the respondents’ perceptions of the importance of these themes in informing digital transformation initiatives.