Social Enterprise Improvisation of Services to the Community Using Mobile Technology

Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing the integration of mobile technology and services of Social Enterprise to communities in South Africa. Following the interpretive approach, we conducted a qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with SE employees and members of a community in South Africa. Our analysis revealed seven key factors: connectivity, network infrastructure, capabilities, affordability, accessibility, contextualisation, language translation, and knowledgeability. These factors interact in complex ways to shape the integration of mobile technology with SE services in the community. The study contributes to the literature by providing a nuanced understanding of how mobile technology can be integrated with SE services, highlighting the potential implications and consequences. Our findings have a significant impact on SEs, community members, and IT specialists including those involved in policymaking.