South Africa Goes Digital: Possible Obstacles to the Adoption of Digital Television

Abstract

This study examined possible obstacles to the adoption of digital television in South Africa. A qualitative approach was followed by conducting in-depth interviews with key informants. The data was analysed using open coding, where dominant themes from the discussions were identified and discussed in detail. The findings show that there are a few challenges in migrating from analogue to digital television in South Africa. However, it is important to note that the challenges indicated are key to the success of broadcasting digital migration. South Africans will need set top boxes which convert the analogue signal into a digital signal. The study established that government will subsidise economically challenged TV-owning households to gain access to set top boxes for digital signal reception and access to digital broadcasting services. It is true that for the digital migration process in South Africa to be successful, it is necessary to have a clear government policy and implementation plan. It is also critical that all the relevant stakeholders cooperate in working together with government.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n1p89