Software — N.Z.’s export future?

Press, 8 July 1986, Page 32

Software — N.Z.’s export future?

“Software development could become a star export industry for New Zealand,” said Mr Martin Kaiser, in a recently published D.S.I.R. discussion paper. More than 250 organisations were surveyed by Mr Kaiser to produce ‘The New Zealand Software Industry”. The results highlighted the weaknesses as well as the strengths of the industry, and recorded performances in sales and exports. An early finding of the survey showed that poor marketing skills limited returns to the industry, particularly overseas. Mr Kaiser noted, however, that the release of this finding, along with others,

stimulated discussion with trade organisations and caused companies to take a more strategic approach to marketing. “The New Zealand Software Industry” also looked at the role of software in the economies of various countries and examined the part played by governments in their development. It made recommendations for action by New Zealand companies, trade bodies, and the Government. “New Zealand has a skilled workforce, and the software industry does not require large capital inputs or big organisations,” Mr Kaiser said. “It’s one industry in which New Zealand can keep up with the world leaders.”