For many students, publishing an academic paper is a dream that often feels out of reach. But for DaVinci doctoral student Vuledzani Dangale, a financial services professional and thought leader, it became a reality through dedication, resilience, and a passion for research. She recently published a groundbreaking paper titled Conceptual Framework on the Use of Big Data to Manage Risks in the South African Insurance Sector: The Case for Further Study. This literature-based study explores how organisations integrate big data into their strategic decisions, identifying critical gaps and proposing a framework to guide future research.
Her paper was presented at the 2024 International Multidisciplinary Information Technology and Engineering Conference (IMITEC), a milestone achievement that underscores the relevance of her work. “The inspiration for this study comes from the increasing recognition that while big data has the potential to enhance strategic decision-making, many organisations struggle with its effective implementation,” she explains. By delving into existing literature, she highlights key challenges such as data governance, ethical considerations, and organisational culture—areas that require further empirical research.
The Road to Publication: A Journey of Persistence
From conceptualisation to publication, the research journey took approximately 18 months. This period involved an extensive literature review to map existing theories and frameworks, laying the groundwork for the next phase of her study. But like any ambitious endeavour, the process was not without its challenges.
“One of the major challenges was synthesising a vast body of literature to identify critical themes and research gaps while ensuring the conceptual framework was both academically rigorous and practically relevant,” Vuledzani reflects. Beyond the academic hurdles, she also had to balance multiple responsibilities, including work, family life, and her literary pursuits.
Yet, the journey was equally rewarding. A key insight from her research was discovering the wide variation in organisational data maturity—some companies have well-developed data ecosystems, while others struggle with basic data governance structures. This realisation reinforced the need for further qualitative research to better understand how different organisations navigate these challenges.
Making an Impact: Research with Real-World Relevance
Vuledzani’s study serves as a stepping stone for future research, providing a structured framework to identify knowledge gaps in big data-driven decision-making. Her next step? Conducting qualitative data collection to validate and refine her framework, ensuring it holds practical value for industry leaders.
“I am particularly interested in engaging with industry leaders in risk management, governance, compliance, and decision-making to gather insights on how big data is currently utilised in strategic decision-making,” she shares. Through her work, she aims to bridge the gap between academic research and industry practice, offering organisations valuable insights on leveraging big data for strategic advantage.
More Than an Academic: A Passion for Knowledge and Advocacy
Beyond her academic contributions, Vuledzani is a multifaceted professional with a passion for education, governance research, financial services innovation, and mental health advocacy. With over 20 years of experience in financial services, she has dedicated her career to simplifying complex problems and driving impactful solutions.
She is also a published author of three books, including Mashudu’s Magical Super Powers, a children’s book available in nine languages. Her work extends to mental health advocacy, particularly in children and corporate environments. “Through my books and initiatives, I aim to raise awareness about mental health, especially among children, parents, and professionals navigating high-pressure environments,” she says.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Vuledzani’s journey is a testament to the power of persistence, passion, and intellectual curiosity. For students who dream of publishing their own research, she serves as an inspiration. Her ability to juggle academic pursuits, a demanding career, and advocacy work proves that with discipline and determination, it is possible to make a meaningful impact in multiple spheres.
As she continues her research and professional journey, one thing is clear—Vuledzani Dangale is not just breaking barriers; she is paving the way for others to follow. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Management in Technology and Innovation at The DaVinci Institute.
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