Framework for the Development and Implementation of Sustainable Information Systems for the Digitalization of Small Businesses in South Africa

Abstract

In this paper, a framework for the development and implementation of a low-cost, “low-code”, information system, for the digitalization of small businesses, in the retail and manufacturing sectors is developed and employed. The purpose of this framework is to enable small businesses, that lack the technical expertise and financial resources to invest in proprietary information system technology, to develop systems by leveraging freely available cloud-based tools like Google Forms, Google Sheets, and Google Sites. A thorough literature review of the concept of digitalization is conducted. Thereafter, a small business suitable for digital transformation is identified. Based on the system requirements an information system relevant to the business is developed and implemented. Finally, guidelines are proposed for the development and implementation of similar systems in other small businesses.