Platform Economy

The Platform Economy encapsulates the digital ecosystem where technology-driven platforms facilitate connections between businesses, individuals, and resources. It’s characterized by its ability to offer new economic opportunities, improve market access, and foster innovation across various sectors, including SMEs, gig work, and entrepreneurship. While it promotes flexibility and growth, it also poses challenges like regulatory complexities and job security. Grasping its dynamics is key for leveraging its benefits and navigating its challenges in today’s digital age.

Cluster Lead

Prof. Wesley Rosslyn-Smith

Professor

Latest Research

SME

2022 | The impact of Industry 4.0 on the business models of small and medium enterprises : a systematic literature review
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2020 | Structural differentiation and organisational learning capability as predictors of corporate venturing and business growth among SMEs in South Africa
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2020 | Structural differentiation and organisational learning capability as predictors of corporate venturing and business growth among SMEs in South Africa
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2024 | Climate-responsive innovation in agro-processing SMEs
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Entrepreneurship

2023 | Psychological propellers of propensity for business start-ups among university students
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2020 | The impact of corporate entrepreneurship on service innovation : a case of a South African banking institution
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2022 | Entrepreneurial learning outcomes in the transition from hybrid to full-time entrepreneurship
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2021 | The characteristics of digital entrepreneurship and digital transformation : a systematic literature review
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2023 | TAfrican perspectives on researching social entrepreneurship
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2024 | Fostering relevant entrepreneurial ecosystems to enable high-growth womenfounded ventures in South Africa
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2024 | The role of entrepreneurial support structures on hybrid entrepreneurial activity
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Gig Economy

2022 | Fast-tracking research methodology immersion for students : experiences from a project on fairwork in the gig economy
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2024 | Uber's digital labour platform and labour relations in South Africa
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2019 | Career-related attitudes, behaviours and competencies of freelance workers in a gig economy
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2018 | Uber drivers : sad to say, but not employees of uber SA
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2017 | An appraisal of the status of uber drivers in South African labour law
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2024 | Understanding how utilisation of mobile applications as part of an omni-channel strategy can lead to value creation for traditional brick-and-mortar retailers in South Africa
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Cluster Sub-Topics

SME

SME, or Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, are businesses below certain thresholds in terms of personnel and revenue. They contribute to economic growth, diversity, and social impact. Challenges include access to finance, competition, and regulatory burdens. Government initiatives and business support organizations support SMEs. Understanding SMEs is crucial for individuals, businesses, and policymakers.

Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship is the process of creating or extracting economic value by identifying opportunities, developing new ideas, and bringing them to life. It involves taking risks, innovating, and adapting to changing market conditions. Key aspects include identifying opportunities, innovation, risk-taking, resourcefulness, and passion. Different types of entrepreneurship include small business, social entrepreneurship, serial entrepreneurship, and intrapreneurship. Entrepreneurship contributes to economic growth, innovation, and personal satisfaction.

Gig Economy

The gig economy is a flexible, freelance work market with a diverse range of sectors, including ride-sharing, food delivery, and freelance writing. It offers potential benefits like flexibility, income opportunities, and access to diverse work. However, challenges include job insecurity, unstable income, lack of benefits, and potential exploitation. Understanding the gig economy is crucial for individuals, businesses, and policymakers to navigate the changing work landscape.