Information and Communication Technology: Business Development Consultant

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to function as an Information and Communication Technology: Business Development Consultant. An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Business Development Consultant identifies and generates new ICT business opportunities to further improve market share; uses non-verbal communication cues as well as technical skills to gain an understanding of customers' ICT needs; promote goods and services to these customers; works closely with business domain experts and subject matter experts to close sales opportunities and facilitate implementation. ICT Business Development Consultants build relationships with experts, clients and partners in building market share. A competent learner shall demonstrate among others the following attributes: honesty, integrity, punctuality, business acumen, self-motivation, responsibility, accountability, interpersonal relations, ethical behaviour, well organised, self-confidence, etc. A qualified learner will be able to: • Apply an understanding of technology and service offerings in the ICT space. • Analyse and interpret trends in the ICT services environment in order to create new business. • Establish and maintain customer relationships in the ICT industry. • Sell and Market ICT products and services. • Perform Sales Administration.

The Information and Communication Technology (ICT): Business Development Consultant occupation has been serviced by an entry level Business Analysis Support qualification. It developed competencies to elicit, analyse and communicate Information and Communication Technology requirements for a business. It however fell short on the business development skills that are for entry level practitioners to enter the ICT sector. The Higher Occupational Certificate: ICT Business Development Consultant qualification has therefore expanded the scope to include market growth and sales. The qualification will benefit society by providing for recognition of prior learning to those employed and have acquired knowledge and skills sets at a level of the qualification. Qualified learners shall gain access to a career pathway leading to Key Accounts Manager in ICT sector and other related industries. The qualification will benefit the economy by creating a sustainable pipeline for rounded qualified entrants into ICT sector. In addition, it will contribute towards freelance work and self-employment, thus create jobs and grow the economy. The typical learners for this qualification will be school leavers and existing ICT industry employees who wish to qualify or equip individuals wishing to reskill. Information and Communication Technology business development shall enhance economic competitiveness of South Africa to the global stage. The qualification was developed in collaboration with the Information Communication Technology sector.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): • Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification /part qualification. • Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part qualification will be credited for modules through RPL. RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result. Entry Requirements: An NQF Level 4 qualification.

• Analyse, assess and evaluate the ICT needs within an economic sector.
• Apply change drivers (trends, challenges and legislation) to identify new ICT business development opportunities.
• Apply product knowledge and professional conduct to manage relationships with customers.
• Conduct phases of the ICT sales process.
• Develop and communicate report on sales.