Information and Communication Technology for economic development and image building of South African cities

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become an integral element of the cities across the world. ICT has also been integrated into the everyday fabric in the cities of South Africa to certain extent. However, how... [ view full abstract ]

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become an integral element of the cities across the world. ICT has also been integrated into the everyday fabric in the cities of South Africa to certain extent. However, how ICT can influence sustainable development of cities in South Africa has not been explicitly explored. The objective of this paper is therefore to examine the influence of ICT on one of the pillars of sustainable development- the economic development of the South African cities. In other words, the paper examined the influence of ICT on the economic development variables such as business environment, entrepreneurship, e-commerce and innovation as well as whether it engenders economic and spatial image of cities. For this purpose, a case study was performed by considering Bloemfontein city of South Africa. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were used. A survey research method was used to collect data followed by quantitative statistical analysis. Besides, case study analyses of similar cities were conducted as well as qualitative discussions with some stakeholders such as urban planning professionals, decision makers, academicians, entrepreneurs and people engaged in economic development and image building were done through non-structured interviews. Findings suggest that important economic variables in the cities, such as, business environment, entrepreneurship, innovation and e-commerce are strengthened by effective use of ICT. Also, ICT can contribute extensively to create both spatial and economic image by enabling a better business environment and entrepreneurship, and influencing spatial and architectural attributes and environmental elements.

Keywords: City; Development; Economy; ICT; Image; Sustainable