The SID Concept
More than just a coordination of efforts, the concept of the SID is based upon the reality that a business as usual trajectory for the town will not result in sustainability. Something extra-ordinary is required to solve the town’s challenges. Part of the solution is to create a system to highlight the challenges, understand them (through research and expertise), classify them and
begin to find potential solutions. Once problems are better understood and highlighted, the solution becomes achievable. The next step is to find the different resources (groups and individuals in collaboration with each other) necessary to solve these challenges. Moreover, many of the challenges are complex and therefore require complex solutions, SID provides the platform for finding the right mix of resources to solve challenges. SID online, provides a way to simplify things through a classification system of knowledge and information sharing through the online innovation system tool called the innovation exchange. Having explained the importance of the online platform, it only adds value when coupled with real-world interaction. To this end, the SID will promote special networking events pertaining to specific challenges and areas of economic interests in Stellenbosch. These events are also aimed at community building, interaction and combining of different skills sets and viewpoints – all of which stimulate new ideas and innovation. Collaboration with the local municipality, the university, business and Stellenbosch360 is of critical importance. Finally, the innovation system (or eco-system as it is often called) will be further stimulat-ed around the notion of transitioning Stellenbosch into a SMART town. The SMART concept can be understood in two ways: Firstly to improve communication, interaction and information about the urban space of the town itself using internet and communication technologies or ICT, similar to what companies like IBM are driving on a global scale. Stellenbosch has the right resources to pilot such a concept for the African content; Sec-ondly, SMART cities can be seen as a way for smaller towns and cities to compete with large metropolitan areas, such as Cape Town. This will happen through the focusing of the town’s resources and specializing in certain industries and skill sets that complement the wider economy. The SID seeks to facilitate specialization in industry sectors that are already strong in Stellenbosch, including ICT, Clean Technology, Agriculture and Tourism. Herein lies the potential for cluster development and innovation management for these industries. The focus of the SID is on using current resources for a more sustainable world, and testing these solutions in the town of Stellenbosch. The idea is to create a SMARTER Stellenbosch that can export its solutions to other towns and cities in Africa and the developing world. The possibilities for innovation through collaboration in the SID are endless.
