Empowering Young Innovators: Senzeni Dladla Facilitates the ‘Brand Your Biz’ Workshop in Standerton, Mpumalanga.
On the 3rd of April, 2025, over 20 passionate innovators gathered in Standerton, Mpumalanga, for an inspiring workshop on the critical topic of branding, facilitated by INFOMedia’s Managing Director, Senzeni Dladla. The session, part of the Sprint Accelerator Programme, brought together both entrepreneurs with existing businesses and those just starting their entrepreneurial journey. The event was designed to equip participants with the essential tools to build strong, effective brands. The workshop, aptly titled “Brand Your Biz,” focused on practical, hands-on learning. Participants were tasked with developing their own brands in groups, with the guidance of experienced professionals. By the end of the day, they presented their brand concepts to a panel of judges, receiving invaluable feedback on their ideas. The panel consisted of some of the region’s top professionals: Nkululeko Nkosi and Mamello Mofokeng from Saturated, Senzeni Dladla, and Mbali Mthimunye from INFOMedia. Throughout the workshop, Senzeni Dladla led discussions on key branding topics that are essential for building successful businesses. The attendees explored Branding Fundamentals, Branding Mechanisms, and Brand Building. The session also covered how to Align Business Strategy with Brand Strategy, ensuring that every business decision strengthens the overall brand. To make it more relatable, Senzeni Dladla also shared the story of INFOMedia, detailing the agency’s journey, challenges, and successes in building its own brand. This provided valuable insights into how brand strategy can evolve over time and the lessons learned along the way. The session was dynamic and engaging, with participants eager to share their experiences, ask questions, and participate in rich discussions. Senzeni Dladla shared, “I had so much fun, it was an engaging session, with the entrepreneurs participating in discussions, sharing their experiences, and asking questions. As a facilitator, that’s all you need – a group that’s in the moment and taking all the value.” This exchange of ideas and experiences was a testament to the collective drive of Mpumalanga’s young entrepreneurs. The success of the workshop wouldn’t have been possible without the support of key stakeholders, including Saturated, Sakhile Youth Empowerment Centre, and Spana Online. Their collaboration has helped foster a thriving ecosystem of entrepreneurs in Mpumalanga, creating a platform for the next generation of business leaders to develop their skills and take their businesses to new heights. The young entrepreneurs of Mpumalanga are indeed in the right hands. With continued support from local organizations, they are on the path to creating a prosperous future. As these innovators develop their brands and businesses, they are not only contributing to the local economy but also establishing a strong entrepreneurial culture that will benefit the region for years to come. INFOMedia is proud to be part of this exciting journey, and we look forward to continuing to support and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit in Mpumalanga.
Boosting Efficiency: Why Your Business Needs E-commerce, Automation and CRM.
Businesses must adapt to evolving customer expectations and increasingly competitive environments. Three critical components have emerged as essential to achieving efficiency, growth, and long-term customer loyalty: E-commerce, Automation, and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems. While each serves a distinct function, their combined power lies in how they integrate to create seamless business operations and enhanced customer experiences. E-commerce: Expanding Reach and Accessibility E-commerce has fundamentally changed the way consumers interact with brands. More than just a digital storefront, an e-commerce platform allows businesses to extend their reach beyond geographical boundaries, operate 24/7, and offer customers the convenience of shopping anytime, anywhere. An effective e-commerce strategy not only drives sales but also provides a wealth of customer data—enabling businesses to track buying patterns, monitor inventory in real time, and respond quickly to market trends. For small and growing businesses in particular, e-commerce is a powerful equalizer, allowing them to compete on a broader scale without the overhead costs of physical stores. Automation: Driving Efficiency and Consistency Once an e-commerce operation is in place, automation plays a key role in improving internal workflows. Automation tools can handle repetitive tasks such as order processing, payment confirmations, inventory updates, customer follow-ups, and marketing campaigns. By minimizing manual processes, automation reduces the risk of human error, increases consistency, and frees up valuable time for staff to focus on strategic tasks. This not only boosts productivity but also helps businesses respond faster to customer needs and maintain a higher standard of service. CRM: Managing and Nurturing Customer Relationships A CRM system is designed to help businesses manage their interactions with current and prospective customers. It consolidates customer data into a single platform, including purchase history, communication preferences, support queries, and more. With this information, businesses can personalize their communications, segment their audiences for targeted campaigns, and provide tailored solutions that build trust and loyalty. CRM systems also support sales teams by tracking leads and forecasting opportunities—turning data into actionable insights. Integration: The Key to Scalable Growth While each of these tools—e-commerce, automation, and CRM—offers individual benefits, their real power is unlocked when they are integrated. For example, an online purchase can automatically update the customer’s CRM profile, trigger a personalized thank-you message, and launch a post-purchase follow-up sequence—all without manual input. This level of integration enables businesses to offer a smooth, consistent customer journey from discovery to delivery. It also ensures that no opportunity is missed, and every touchpoint is optimized for engagement and conversion. In an era where customers expect convenience, speed, and personalization, businesses that leverage e-commerce, automation, and CRM together are better equipped to meet these demands. More than just tools, they form the foundation of a modern, scalable, and customer-centric business model. Investing in these systems is not just about keeping up with trends—it’s about creating efficient processes, gaining deeper customer insights, and building stronger, more profitable relationships.
INFOMedia at Propak Africa 2025: A Glimpse into the Future of Packaging and Printing
From March 11 to 14, INFOMedia proudly marked its presence at Propak Africa 2025, the continent’s leading trade show for packaging, printing, food processing, plastics, and labelling. Held at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, the event brought together industry leaders, innovators, and solution providers to showcase the latest advancements shaping the future of manufacturing and production. Represented by Managing Director Senzeni Dladla and Chief Operations Officer Mbali Mthimunye, INFOMedia embraced the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and explore cutting-edge solutions to enhance its business offerings. With over 500 exhibitors displaying thousands of new products and technologies, the event provided valuable insights into automation, digitalization, and sustainable solutions, all of which are shaping the future of the industry. The exhibition floor was a hub of innovation, with groundbreaking advancements in large-format printing, eco-friendly packaging, and smart labelling solutions taking centre stage. These developments reinforced the industry’s shift towards sustainability and efficiency, aligning perfectly with INFOMedia’s mission to deliver impactful and responsible branding solutions. Beyond the technology, Propak Africa 2025 presented a prime opportunity for strategic networking. Engaging with industry experts, suppliers, and potential partners opened doors for future collaborations, strengthening INFOMedia’s position in the market. Conversations around biodegradable materials and energy-efficient printing techniques underscored the growing demand for environmentally conscious solutions, a trend that will influence the company’s approach moving forward. As INFOMedia expands its services in branding, packaging, and large-format printing, the knowledge gained at Propak Africa 2025 will play a crucial role in refining its strategies. The event reaffirmed its commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and ensuring that clients receive cutting-edge, results-driven solutions. Propak Africa 2025 was more than just an exhibition; it provided a glimpse into the future of the industry. INFOMedia remains dedicated to adopting innovative, sustainable, and high-impact solutions that add value to both clients and the community. The journey ahead is exciting, and the company looks forward to implementing the latest industry innovations to elevate branding, print, and packaging solutions.
INFOMedia Attends The Mpumalanga Eskom Business Connect
On March 5th and 6th, 2025, INFOMedia had the privilege of participating in the Mpumalanga Eskom Business Connect, held at the Banquet Hall in Middelburg. Our General Manager, Thulani Mabena, represented us at this prestigious event, which was hosted by Eskom and the Mpumalanga Provincial Government. The event brought together key industry stakeholders and businesses, including Ash Resources Fly Ash Products, Mega, Economic Development & Tourism, Sanlam, Barloworld Equipment, Babcock, PetroSA, PPC, and many more. The primary objective was to highlight opportunities available for SMMEs to benefit from various programs under Eskom and other supporting institutions such as IDC, PetroSA, SEDFA, and other government entities. A key discussion point during the event was the lack of knowledge among SMMEs regarding the right channels for funding and business growth. Many small businesses struggle to access funding and resources, simply because they do not know where to look or whom to approach. This event served as a valuable platform for engagement, allowing business owners to gain crucial insights into available opportunities and network with key industry players. It was inspiring to witness many young entrepreneurs from the Nkangala region actively participating in the event. Their enthusiasm and eagerness to learn reaffirmed the importance of initiatives like these in shaping the future of SMMEs in South Africa. Some attendees even shared their testimonies on how the information gained from the event transformed their perspectives and gave them new strategies to grow their businesses. As a company committed to supporting businesses through digital marketing solutions, INFOMedia found this event to be an eye-opener. One of the major lessons we took from the event was that there are abundant opportunities within government sectors for SMMEs. However, many small businesses fail to seize these opportunities due to a lack of awareness or confidence. Another critical takeaway was the realization that SMMEs should never underestimate their potential. Regardless of the size of a business, there is always an opportunity to work with large corporations and government entities. Taking bold steps and engaging with the right stakeholders can lead to exponential growth. Thulani took full advantage of this platform to introduce INFOMedia’s digital marketing services to SMMEs and other established businesses. This engagement not only strengthened our brand visibility but also opened doors for future collaborations as we continue striving to become the leading digital marketing agency in Mpumalanga and South Africa at large.
Consistency is Key: How to Stay Focused and Achieve Your Business Objectives
Running a business is a journey full of challenges and opportunities. To navigate this path successfully, having clear goals and measurable milestones is non-negotiable. Goal setting not only provides a sense of direction but also ensures you remain consistent in your efforts to grow your business. Here’s how setting goals, defining milestones, implementing KPIs, and tracking your objectives can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Why Goal Setting is Essential Imagine embarking on a road trip without a map or destination. You might drive endlessly, but you’re unlikely to arrive where you truly want to be. Similarly, in business, goals act as your map—they provide clarity and a sense of purpose. Whether it’s increasing revenue, growing your customer base, or expanding into new markets, setting clear goals helps you focus on what truly matters. Breaking Down Goals into Milestones A long-term goal can feel overwhelming if viewed as one giant task. Breaking it down into smaller, actionable milestones makes it more achievable. For example, if your goal is to generate R1 million in revenue by year-end: By creating milestones, you’re not only making the goal less intimidating but also allowing yourself to celebrate small wins along the way, which keeps you motivated. Using KPIs to Measure Progress Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are measurable values that show how effectively you’re achieving your goals. Think of KPIs as the metrics on your business dashboard—they tell you whether you’re on track or need to make adjustments. Here are some examples of KPIs for common business goals: Select KPIs that align directly with your goals and track them consistently to evaluate your progress. Tracking Objectives and Staying Consistent Setting goals and KPIs is only half the battle. To achieve success, you must monitor your objectives regularly. Here’s how to stay on track: Consistency is Key Consistency isn’t about working nonstop; it’s about maintaining focus and making steady progress toward your objectives. Small, intentional actions performed regularly compound into significant results. Stay disciplined, remind yourself of your “why,” and remain adaptable as you navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Final Thoughts Goal setting, milestone planning, and tracking progress aren’t just business activities—they’re the foundation of sustainable success. By setting clear goals, breaking them into manageable milestones, measuring progress with KPIs, and tracking your objectives, you’ll build a business that thrives on purpose and consistency. Remember, success doesn’t happen overnight, but with clear direction and consistent effort, you’ll achieve the entrepreneurial goals you’ve set for yourself. Ready to set your goals and take your business to the next level? Start today, stay consistent, and watch your vision become a reality.
Brand Development Does Not End with Corporate Identity – Here’s Why
When most people hear “brand development,” they often think of logos, colors, and taglines. While these elements are part of a brand’s corporate identity, they are just the tip of the iceberg. True brand development goes much deeper—it’s an ongoing process of shaping how your business is perceived and building meaningful relationships with your audience. Here’s what every business owner should know: 1️⃣ Corporate Identity is Just the Beginning Your logo, fonts, and visual elements create recognition, but they don’t define your brand entirely. Your values, voice, and customer experience are what make your brand stand out and resonate with people. 2️⃣ Consistency Builds Trust A strong brand is consistent across every touchpoint—online and offline. From your website to your social media posts, emails, and customer service, everything should reflect your brand’s tone, values, and promises. Consistency builds trust, and trust drives loyalty. 3️⃣ Your Brand Lives in the Minds of Your Customers Your brand is not just what you say it is—it’s what your customers think and feel about it. By aligning your messaging with their needs and emotions, you can create a brand that’s more than recognizable—it’s relatable and memorable. 4️⃣ Adaptation Keeps Your Brand Relevant The market is always changing, and so are consumer preferences. Successful brands evolve with the times while staying true to their core values. Regularly revisit your strategy to ensure your brand remains relevant, competitive, and inspiring. 5️⃣ It’s About the Experience Every customer interaction contributes to your brand’s reputation. From the way your employees answer calls to how your website performs or how quickly you resolve customer issues—it all reflects your brand. 6️⃣ Storytelling Makes Your Brand Human People connect with stories, not just visuals. Sharing your journey, values, and the impact your business makes can humanize your brand and create deeper emotional connections with your audience. Brand development is a journey, not a destination. While a polished corporate identity gets you noticed, it’s the ongoing effort to communicate, connect, and deliver value that keeps your brand thriving. At INFOMedia, we specialize in helping businesses build brands that go beyond visuals and create lasting impact. Let’s work together to make your brand more than just a logo—let’s make it unforgettable. For guidance on building your brand, reach out to us at info@infomedia.co.za or visit www.infomedia.co.za.
Boost Your Sales with Google Ads: A Solution for Local Businesses in South Africa
Standing out is a challenge for businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re in bustling Johannesburg, scenic Cape Town, or anywhere in between, Google Ads offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with your target audience and drive meaningful results. As a marketing tool, Google Ads is uniquely positioned to help businesses thrive by combining precision targeting, measurable outcomes, and cost efficiency. Let’s explore why businesses across South Africa are turning to Google Ads to supercharge their growth. 1. Immediate Visibility on Google’s Search Engine With over 90% of online searches happening on Google, this platform is where your customers are searching for products and services. Google Ads puts your business front and center, appearing at the top of search results when potential customers are actively looking for what you offer. For example, if someone searches for “plumbers near me,” “organic vegetables delivery,” or “affordable car service,” your ad can be the first thing they see. This visibility ensures you’re capturing high-intent audiences who are ready to take action. 2. Precision Targeting That Maximizes Results Google Ads allows you to target your ideal customers with unmatched precision. You can customize your campaigns to focus on: For businesses in South Africa’s diverse landscape, this ability to tailor campaigns ensures that your marketing efforts deliver the best possible return on investment (ROI). 3. Cost-Effective Advertising That Scales with Your Business Google Ads operates on a pay-per-click (PPC) model, meaning you only pay when someone interacts with your ad. This eliminates wasted spending and ensures that every rand invested is used to drive results. Start small and scale your campaigns as you see success. For example, a small bakery in Bloemfontein could begin with a modest budget targeting local customers, then expand to broader regions as their brand grows. 4. Flexibility to Match Every Business Goal One of Google Ads’ greatest strengths is its versatility. Whether you’re looking to build awareness, drive sales, or generate leads, there’s a campaign type to suit your needs: This flexibility makes Google Ads suitable for businesses across industries, from retail and hospitality to professional services. 5. Actionable Insights for Smarter Decisions Data is key to making informed marketing decisions, and Google Ads excels in providing real-time analytics. You can monitor: These insights allow you to refine your campaigns, adjust budgets, and focus on strategies that yield the best results. Real-Life Success: Businesses Leveraging Google Ads Across South Africa, businesses are reaping the benefits of Google Ads. For example: These examples showcase how businesses, big and small, can achieve measurable growth with the right Google Ads strategy. How INFOMedia Can Help You Harness the Power of Google Ads We specialize in creating results-driven Google Ads campaigns for businesses across South Africa. From identifying the right keywords to crafting compelling ads and tracking performance, we handle every aspect of your campaign to ensure success. Here’s what you can expect when partnering with us: Take Your Business to the Next Level Google Ads is more than just an advertising platform—it’s a powerful tool to grow your business, reach new customers, and achieve your goals. Whether you’re in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, or a smaller town, the opportunities are endless. Ready to make Google Ads work for you? Contact INFOMedia today to learn how we can help your business thrive in the digital age. Book your consultation or send us a WhatsApp on (068) 250-2632 to get started. Let’s turn your vision into a success story.
Top 5 Financial Management Systems in South Africa for Small Businesses
For small businesses in South Africa, effective financial management is key to growth and sustainability. With the right system, you can streamline expenses, track cash flow, and simplify tax filing. Here are five of the best financial management systems popular in South Africa, each designed to make managing your business finances easier. 1. QUICKBOOKS ONLINE Best for: Small to medium businesses needing a versatile solution Features: QuickBooks Online is a popular choice for small businesses due to its ease of use and comprehensive features. It offers tools for invoicing, expense tracking, payroll management, and financial reporting. With a cloud-based platform, it enables users to manage their accounts from anywhere, which is great for remote teams. Why It’s Great in South Africa: Localized support and compatibility with South African tax requirements make QuickBooks an ideal choice for small businesses across the country. 2. XERO Best for: Freelancers and businesses needing simple, user-friendly software Features: Xero is known for its intuitive interface, making it easy to manage accounting tasks without extensive training. Key features include bank reconciliation, invoicing, and expense tracking. Xero’s platform also integrates with various third-party applications, adding flexibility for growing businesses. Why It’s Great in South Africa: Xero provides seamless integration with South African banks and offers VAT reporting options, helping businesses stay compliant with local tax regulations. 3. SAGE BUSINESS CLOUD ACCOUNTING Best for: Small to medium businesses needing scalable software Features: Sage Business Cloud Accounting offers budgeting, invoicing, cash flow management, and VAT reporting. Its user-friendly dashboard provides a clear overview of your finances, and the software supports payroll, making it a comprehensive tool for businesses that need more than basic accounting. Why It’s Great in South Africa: Sage is tailored for the South African market, including VAT calculations and compliance features that simplify tax reporting. Sage is also trusted for its scalability, allowing businesses to start with basic tools and expand as they grow. 4. WAVE Best for: Freelancers and small businesses on a budget Features: Wave is a free financial management platform that covers invoicing, expense tracking, and receipt scanning. For small businesses, Wave offers an accessible way to manage finances without incurring subscription costs, while additional features like payroll and payment processing are available for a fee. Why It’s Great in South Africa: As a free tool, Wave is particularly useful for South African startups and freelancers who need basic accounting capabilities without a heavy financial commitment. 5. ZOHO BOOKS Best for: Small businesses already using Zoho products Features: Zoho Books offers a suite of financial tools, including automated workflows, invoicing, expense management, and financial reporting. It integrates smoothly with other Zoho applications, allowing businesses to manage CRM, inventory, and accounting in a single ecosystem. Why It’s Great in South Africa: Zoho Books has strong customization options and integrates well with various South African banks, making it a flexible choice for small businesses that need affordable, easy-to-manage software. Choosing the Right Financial Management System When selecting the best financial management system, consider: With the right financial management system, South African businesses can streamline processes, stay compliant, and keep their financial health on track. Take advantage of these tools to manage your business finances more effectively and focus on growth!
Our Journey to Streamlined Excellence: Lessons from the Value Chain Workshop
On October 24, 2024, INFOMedia’s Managing Director, Senzeni Dladla, attended a dynamic workshop at the Melrose Arch Marriott Hotel in Johannesburg by 54 Collective, focused on mastering the value chain in business. The event, themed “Understanding the Value Chain and Taking Control,” brought together industry leaders to explore strategies for strengthening each link of their companies’ value chains—from operations and marketing to customer service. The workshop underscored how each step of a business’s value chain impacts the next, influencing overall quality, client satisfaction, and brand strength. A major takeaway for INFOMedia was recognizing how small, targeted improvements in our process can create significant benefits in our services, resulting in a smoother and more effective delivery to our clients. With the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals, Mr. Dladla left the workshop equipped with new insights and strategies to make INFOMedia’s operations even more value-driven. This workshop is part of our ongoing commitment to growth, quality, and maintaining our promise to deliver results that matter.
Growing Our Business and Exploring Cape Town: Highlights from the SAB Tholoana Program Workshop
Our recent visit to Cape Town for the SAB Tholoana Program workshop was a remarkable blend of learning, connection, and a touch of adventure. Held at The Pepperclub Hotel from October 16th to 18th, 2024, the three-day workshop focused on Financial Management, Marketing, and Sales. It was an invaluable opportunity to refine our business skills and explore one of South Africa’s most iconic cities. Day one, led by the experienced Marc Johnson, delved deep into Financial Management. The sessions went beyond simply meeting compliance requirements; they were all about understanding financial reports in their proper context. We explored the importance of interpreting financial statements with a critical eye and using them as tools to inform strategic decision-making. The day’s lessons helped us realize that financial data should guide our business strategies and not just exist as numbers on a page. This approach was a refreshing change, challenging us to view financial management as a dynamic and essential component of business growth. The second day shifted gears to Marketing, under the guidance of Anton Ressel. As an advertising agency, this was where we felt most at home, yet there was still much to absorb. The sessions focused on crafting unique narratives, defining our Unique Selling Proposition (USP), and building brands that can stand the test of time. We discussed strategies for developing brands that resonate with customers across generations, learning how to convey messages that truly reflect who we are as a business. It was an exciting day for INFOMedia, giving us the chance to share our expertise, learn new techniques, and engage in enriching conversations with fellow entrepreneurs who are equally passionate about growing their brands. On the final day, Anton Ressel led us through an intensive exploration of Sales techniques. This included practical approaches to making sales, closing deals, and handling objections. The sessions were interactive, incorporating role-playing exercises that simulated real-world sales scenarios. These practical activities allowed us to apply the techniques we learned immediately, helping us gain confidence in our sales process and equipping us with the skills needed to overcome sales challenges and seize new business opportunities. The workshop was not just about learning—it was also about connection. Our director, Senzeni Dladla, took full advantage of the opportunity to develop new relationships and engage with like-minded entrepreneurs. The conversations and connections made were invaluable, enriching our network and opening doors to future collaborations. Cape Town, fondly known as The Mother City, offered much more than just a business setting. We made time to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, taking a sunset cruise at the V&A Waterfront, strolling through the city during evening walks, and even joining in with tourists during lively performances. These moments of leisure provided a perfect balance to the intensive workshop, allowing us to unwind and fully appreciate the beauty and culture of Cape Town. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the SAB Tholoana Program for their ongoing support and dedication to the growth of small businesses. The workshop was a transformative experience, equipping us with new tools and insights that we are eager to implement as we continue on our journey. We remain committed to building a business that endures, creating a legacy that can be passed down to future generations. Here’s to growth, collaboration, and the pursuit of new opportunities!
