Driven by significant growth in smartphone adoption, Africa is poised to become the skills pool for the world, underpinned by innovation solutions derived from trends such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and data analytics, making the continent an attractive target for international investment.

This is according to South African research consultancy World Wide Worx head Arthur Goldstuck, who spoke at global industry-specific software provider Epicor Software’s customer event, held in Johannesburg last month.

“The digital divide between Africa and more developed economies used to be a significant obstacle that needed to be overcome for the continent to be competitive on the international stage. This is no longer the case, with many examples of how African countries are using mobile payment solutions and other services being mirrored in the global marketplace.”

For Epicor, these technology and business growth trends are reflected in the latest version of its next-generation enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution, Epicor ERP.

Used by 20 000 customers in 150 countries worldwide, Epicor ERP helps businesses make the most of technologies such as IoT, Big Data and analytics, social collaboration, mobility and additive manufacturing.

“These are exciting times for our customers in Africa that are leading the charge in embracing innovative ways of doing business while fundamentally focusing on peoplecentric manufacturing processes . . . the continent is showing the world what can be done when combining world-class technology with people who have embraced the digital environment and are empowering themselves with the skills needed for this connected age,” said Epicor Software international executive VP Sabby Gill.

Goldstuck agreed, adding that Africa would be the last human stronghold in manufacturing if the right systems were put in place. “Africa has a high-tech future, but it must be built around its people. To date, this has been one of the continent’s strengths – putting people first, with technology being adapted to what works in the various markets across the continent.”