Investigation of an appropriate technology forecasting process for Sasol for the new energy era

Abstract

Sasol is predominantly an energy-based company. The energy industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation that may have a profound impact on Sasol’s overall business. This study has been carried out to investigate the need to establish an appropriate technology forecasting process for the new energy era. Although there exist some evidence of technology forecasting within Sasol, they are scattered and unsophisticated. Technology forecasting as a tool enables managers to make better decisions and encourages networking and knowledge sharing within the organization, an important trait of a ‘Learning Organization’. A theoretical framework of technology forecasting for Sasol is thereby formulated.

Sasol is hoofsaaklik 'n energie-gebaseerde maatskappy. Die energie-industrie ondergaan tans 'n diepgaande transformasie wat 'n wesenlike impak kan hê op Sasol se totale besigheid. Hierdie studie is uitgevoer om die behoefte vir 'n toepaslike tegnologie-vooruitskattingsproses vir die nuwe energie-era te bepaal. Alhoewel daar bewyse bestaan vir tegnologie-vooruitskatting binne Sasol, is dit verspreid en ongesofistikeerd. Tegnologie-vooruitskatting is 'n gereedskapstuk wat bestuurders in staat stel om beter besluite te neem en bevorder die gebruik van netwerke en kennis-uitruiling binne die organisasie, 'n belangrike eienskap van 'n 'Lerende Organisasie'. 'n Teoretiese raamwerk vir tegnologie-vooruitskatting vir Sasol word sodoende geformuleer