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This paper develops a conceptual framework for the adoption of Fourth and Fifth Industrial Revolution (4IR/5IR) technologies by South African Software Development (SD) Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). While SD is a critical enabler of 4IR/5IR, existing research has primarily focused on adoption within manufacturing, neglecting SD firms as technology producers. Given the resource constraints and low digital readiness of SD SMMEs in South Africa (SA), there is a risk of the country becoming a net consumer of foreign digital products. This paper synthesises the literature on 4IR/5IR technology adoption together with the Technology-Organisation-Environment-Individual (TOEI) framework to structure adoption factors affecting SD SMMEs. The findings aim to guide SD SMMEs in enhancing competitiveness, reducing offshoring, and supporting economic growth. Future research will validate and refine the framework for industry applicability.

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A Conceptual Framework for 4IR/5IR Adoption in South African Software Development SMMEs

  • 会议论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年

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  • Vishal Ishwarlall Phlad,
  • John Andrew van der Poll,
  • Esnah Dzimba

摘要

This paper develops a conceptual framework for the adoption of Fourth and Fifth Industrial Revolution (4IR/5IR) technologies by South African Software Development (SD) Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). While SD is a critical enabler of 4IR/5IR, existing research has primarily focused on adoption within manufacturing, neglecting SD firms as technology producers. Given the resource constraints and low digital readiness of SD SMMEs in South Africa (SA), there is a risk of the country becoming a net consumer of foreign digital products. This paper synthesises the literature on 4IR/5IR technology adoption together with the Technology-Organisation-Environment-Individual (TOEI) framework to structure adoption factors affecting SD SMMEs. The findings aim to guide SD SMMEs in enhancing competitiveness, reducing offshoring, and supporting economic growth. Future research will validate and refine the framework for industry applicability.