Information Systems Engineering and Innovation Group

The Information Systems Engineering and Innovation Group focuses on advancing information systems design and development to drive organisational efficiency, innovation, and technological progress. The group specialises in integrating system engineering methodologies, cutting-edge information technology, and innovative strategies to create transformative solutions for a wide range of internal and external clients. The group's research combines information systems engineering, project management, system development, and industry collaboration to develop breakthrough innovations in technology and business operations. The group seeks to improve system functionalities, enhance operational processes, and contribute to digital transformation by leveraging data-driven decision-making and state-of-the-art technologies.

Areas of Interest


Project Management

Project Management research in the group focuses on methodologies and tools that enhance the planning, execution, and monitoring of complex IT projects. Emphasis is placed on integrating traditional project management frameworks with agile and lean approaches to improve project success rates, reduce risks, and enhance stakeholder satisfaction. Participating researchers and students explore topics such as project scope definition, scheduling, resource allocation, and performance measurement with industry's "best practices" regarding project management, software development, architecture, infrastructure, organisational structures, culture, maturity, governance, strategy and organisational change management. The group aims to equip researchers and participating students with tools and techniques for efficient project delivery, especially in environments with rapid technological change.


System Development

System Development research focuses on designing, implementing, and maintaining information systems, spanning software engineering, systems architecture, and user experience. This area explores innovative approaches in software development methodologies, including agile, DevOps, model-driven engineering, and prototyping, to ensure scalable, secure, and high-performance systems. The group is dedicated to creating systems that support internal NWU business operations, streamline processes, and enable digital transformation.


Industry Collaboration

Industry Collaboration emphasises bridging the gap between academia and industry by fostering partnerships that promote practical, real-world applications of information systems engineering. This subgroup focuses on collaboration with the IT industries to allow students access to applying industry and research-driven insights to develop customised, cutting-edge solutions. The group thus collaborates with industry partners to co-develop technologies, conduct joint research projects, and offer consultancy in areas like system optimisation and digital transformation. By working closely with industry partners, the group ensures its innovations align with current market trends and challenges.


Innovation

Innovation research in the group explores the application of emerging technologies and disruptive ideas to create groundbreaking solutions that address the needs of modern businesses. Areas of focus include digital transformation, smart systems, and next-generation technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and artificial intelligence (AI). The group aims to foster a culture of innovation that empowers learners to adopt new technologies for competitive advantage. Researchers investigate new paradigms in business models, information systems design, and process automation to ensure that curricula taught stay current in an ever-evolving technological landscape. The group also works on creating new methodologies that foster creativity, ideation, and the continuous improvement of products and services.


Through interdisciplinary research and collaboration with industry partners, the Information Systems Engineering and Innovation Group contributes to the design and implementation of innovative, efficient, and sustainable information systems that drive technological advancement and support the organisational growth of the NWU.

Members