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RACA Journal Publication www . hvacronline . co . za benjamin @ interactmedia . co . za
RACA Journal : ISSN 1812-772X
2022 HOLDS INTERESTING PREDICTIONS
Looking at various data that tracks business trends around the world , it becomes possible to get a glimpse of what could be expected this year and beyond . One prediction high up on the list , and perhaps not surprising for the local arena , is what has been termed ‘ ditching bad customers ’.
You could put this into the context of business any way you like , from customers who continue to push the boundaries of expectations to those who continue to haggle pricing to a point where a business relationship is no longer feasible . Perhaps the fit is just not right in terms of organisational culture .
Either way , the pandemic , as much as we dislike continuing to hear about it and its effects , has fast tracked a number of ‘ how things are done ’ trends today . The current economic environment has many business owners realising the fact that poor business relationships are mentally , physically , and financially costly over time for both themselves and their staff .
Another topical prediction relevant to the local market high up on the list is the way businesses are structured – having a modular framework allows the ability to scale a business according to current requirements . This may be a function of capacity or ensuring the
correct skill set can be applied to a project without deviating from a business ’ s core competence . Having a modular structure would allow a business to contend with another of the ‘ new normals ’ – disruption and adaptation to ever-changing environments .
Other predictions for 2022 and beyond include how consumers will develop ways to manipulate data in their fight to avoid targeted marketing based on their online activity ( where their data is harvested and used to suggest products and services ), the growth of AI across the board , navigation of cybercrimes or attacks , the loss of management levels within organisations and the possibility that Africa will become the next big start-up hub in the world as accessibility to technology grows rapidly . This holds tremendous possibility for the continent and would be welcomed for many African countries who have historically , and still , struggle with extreme poverty .
In this issue , we cover various news locally and internationally . Don ’ t forget to keep up to date by following our online platforms and social media crammed with information directly and indirectly related to the HVAC & R sectors . We carry our regular contributors , and other thought leader articles .
Our feature is on sensors and their role in HVACR systems and achieving better efficiencies . The project in this issue is the new Bridgewater One development in Cape Town that is the latest addition to Century City and comprises mixed-use units . It was handed over to the client at the end of October 2021 .
Our profile is on Dr Trueman Myeza , who has led a career of focus and specific strategy to get him to the point he is at today , as well as his numerous qualifications , board participation and involvement in training and mentorship programmes . We also continue Part 2 of the technical article on UV light as a disinfection method .
Keep a look out for all the latest information on FRIGAIR 2022 – the continent ’ s largest dedicated HVAC & R event taking place 1 – 3 June 2022 at the Gallagher Convention Centre . This event , owned by the South African Institute of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning ( SAIRAC ), promises to contribute to the stimulus of the industries as all role players , suppliers and thought leaders come together once again after a break of four years since the last event .
As always , I look forward to your feedback – whether compliment , complaint , or suggestion – to continue to ensure we are providing you with the content you want to read , and find value in . Please feel free to engage with me at your convenience .
As it is the start of a new year , I thought the following a good quote to include as we start afresh with a new mindset and possibly also an opportunity to leave bad habits or thoughts behind us .
“ What you ’ re supposed to do when you don ’ t like a thing is change it . If you can ’ t change it , change the way you think about it . Don ’ t complain .” - Maya Angelou
Have a great month ahead ! RACA
Ben
www . hvacronline . co . za RACA Journal I January 2022 1