When we at Dataweek published our first EMP Handbook last year, we had every intention of making it an annual publication. Although we were confident that we’d put together a quality resource of value to the South African electronics manufacturing sector, there was still a feeling of nervous anticipation similar to that felt by expectant first-time parents, as we waited for feedback from our readers and clients. Suffice it to say, you’re only reading these words now because of the overwhelmingly positive response we received, and we are looking forward to doing it all again next year, and again and again after that.
With the daunting prospect of a February financial year-end looming for many of us, this is a good time to stop and smell the roses, forgive ourselves for the New Year’s resolutions we haven’t kept, and focus on our career and business goals for the year ahead.
Without a doubt the biggest news for the local electronics manufacturing sector right now is the commencement of the manufacture and delivery of set-top boxes for South Africa’s digital TV migration programme (see 'Ready, set-top box, go!'). In fact, this has been a hot topic for a number of years now, albeit usually for the wrong reasons. Ironically, it’s safe to say that up until now more news coverage has been given to the ‘backend’ problems behind the migration than to government’s actual ‘Go Digital’ campaign.
It’s worth reminding ourselves that the digital TV revolution promises myriad benefits for not only this country’s industry, but also its citizens. It will open up the market to new broadcasters and provide access to more free-to-air channels, as well as new multi-media and interactive services such as games, weather and other information, electronic programming guides and even the sale of non-television services.
Since digital TV uses less bandwidth than its analog counterpart, the changeover will also free up much needed RF spectrum, which is both valuable and scarce. That extra spectrum will then become available for other uses, the most significant being for government to deliver on its long-term promises to improve broadband access countrywide, particularly for disadvantaged communities.
In contrast with the joy that STB manufacturers will be experiencing this year, many readers will be disappointed that the productronica trade fair is taking its customary year off as it alternates with electronica in drawing some of the biggest crowds in the international industry to Munich’s Messe München exhibition centre. On the other hand, I would argue that productronica’s absence is, ironically, a good thing for productivity, since so many overseas travellers are fond of taking the opportunity to incorporate Oktoberfest into their itinerary.
Another topic that’s sure to be big news for the next three or so years is ISO 9001, which was revised last year and carries an implementation deadline of September 2018. With so many of the country’s (and the world’s) organisations having adopted this standard for their quality management systems, we felt it important to inform our readers on the most important changes they need to know about, an analysis of which you’ll find in these pages. We’ve also included news and insights into the operations of some of SA’s leading electronics manufacturers.
So, without further ado, here’s to a fantastically productive year ahead!
Brett van den Bosch
Editor
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