The role of ICT in social enterprise value creation in South Africa

Abstract

This research aimed to establish the types of and the way in which ICTs are used by social entrepreneurs in South Africa to achieve their social value proposition. Social entrepreneurs are seen to have an important role to play in helping address socio-economic problems, such as poverty alleviation and job creation. However, they face numerous challenges, notably a lack of resources. ICTs are seen as a tool that organisations can use to become more resource-efficient. The research was conducted using qualitative research methodology, which can offer more descriptive data and assist with building an understanding of the topic. As no set definition for social entrepreneurship exists, there is a lack of data for quantitative analysis. This study found that social entrepreneurs in South Africa use a wide range of ICTs to manage human and financial resources, identify opportunities to grow and improve their organisations, comply with legal and regulatory requirements, and achieve their social value propositions. However, room exists for more intensive adoption of existing technologies by social enterprises, as well as implementing emerging ICTs such as artificial intelligence.