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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:The Role of New Technology in the South African Textile Industry's Quest for Survival in the 1990s
Author:Jafta, RachelISNI
Year:2005
Periodical:South African Journal of Economic History
Volume:20
Issue:2
Period:September
Pages:19-47
Language:English
Geographic term:South Africa
Subjects:textile industry
technology
Development and Technology
Economics and Trade
History and Exploration
External link:https://doi.org/10.1080/10113430509511185
Abstract:This article looks at how the South African textile industry adapted to increased foreign competition after 1994. Many firms saw the introduction of new technology as a means of dealing with these challenges. Of particular interest are the decision to invest in new technology, the process of acquisition and implementation, and changes in organizational processes, routines and competences. The study is based on a questionnaire survey, factory visits and interviews. It focused on the period between 1994 and 1999, when the bulk of investment in new technology took place. From the analysis, two broad problem areas emerge: the firms' behaviour with respect to labour and the apparent mismatch between the nature and requirements of the new technology and the organizational structure of management and production. Investing in new technology was a necessary but not sufficient strategy for the successful rejuvenation of firms in a mature industry. Complementary changes, such as in organizational structure, use of human resources, supply chain relations, and product and market mix, are also of crucial importance. Notes, ref. [ASC Leiden abstract]
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