A comparison of low-cost housing units for varying climatic regions in South Africa : a knowledge management approach

Abstract

PURPOSE – One of the greatest challenges faced by the 1994 post-apartheid government in South Africa is the housing problem that has persisted for almost 30 years into democracy. Innovation in research and practice is required to address this problem. This paper aims to discuss the aforementioned objective. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH – This paper presents an argument for housing knowledge management as one part of a much larger system of housing provision and critically compares information variations on one hypothetical, low-cost housing unit adapted for varying climatic regions. It aims to enquire if there is an overlap in information. FINDINGS – The findings do confirm a noteworthy overlap in the information of the varying units. Therefore, knowledge management of the information would prove effective and may contribute in part to housing provision. RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS – The study is limited to assessing the information changes made to the contract documentation of the housing unit. SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS – The paper argues that knowledge management of this overlapping information could impact housing provision by providing knowledge power to those affected by the housing problem. ORIGINALITY/VALUE – The findings are a unique perspective presented through a knowledge management lens. In addition, the said knowledge management lens provides a platform to raise additional questions. When seeking answers to these questions, it is expected that research sub-themes would be identified focussing further research studies towards finding answers.