Abstract
M.A.
This thesis summarises research into the feasibility and subsequent
implementation of a subscription based online and electronic information
resource centre for the South African wine and brandy industry.
A business case was compiled and accepted by key decision makers in the
industry. The information resource centre was established under a
recognised industry body to ensure equal access to all the role-players in the
industry.
The benefits of a centralised industry information resource centre have been
demonstrated to result in:
► Reduced information acquisition cost
► No unnecessary duplication of high cost items, such as market analysis
reports
► Improved and accelerated dissemination of information within the local
industry through the use of a full electronic distribution strategy
► A point of contact for information for all role-players in the local industry
and not just those organisations or institutions which have large research
and marketing budgets
► A consistent and a unified database of local and international holdings
within the local industry.