4.3 IMPACT OF DEREGULATION ON THE ICT SECTOR
The second set of questions dealt with the impact of deregulation, which influences the
ICT industry in SA. Before deregulation, efficiency was a rare commodity in the sector
and operators were offering very limited services, lacking the latest technological
advantages and operational efficiencies.
Today the industry has turned around completely with the introduction of the latest
technology and aggressive operational efficiencies. The deregulation and globalisation
of the ICT industry also contributed by unleashing competition and it is expected that
this trend will continue into the future.
An analysis of the research results showed that 92 per cent of the respondents were in
favour of the opinion that ICT operators will face more effective competition in terms of
service delivery. Because of the increased competition, ICT operators will thus be
compelled to use and apply their integrated management tools more effectively.
Respondents also favoured the view that new entrants will capitalise on IT subsystems
in service delivery to their customers.