The housing industry is a fundamental and strategic sector linked to improving the standard of living and it depends highly on technological innovation as a constant driving force. Technological innovation creates added value by improving the product, and sometimes cut the costs, thus allowing for a greater distribution of the product on the market. They also have the potential to significantly support and help to realize the aims and objectives of the department by fast-tracking housing delivery in the province. The use of sustainable alternative technologies is also gaining momentum in the country and there is a need for developments in KwaZulu-Natal to also start utilizing these sustainable and efficient technologies rather than relying on conventional technologies only. The Department of Human Settlements has adopted a more holistic approach focusing more on the restoration of dignity, the creation of integrated communities and sustainable developments. This has coincided with the growing concerns of global warming and the imperative for future housing to be increasingly energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Propelled by this notion, the Department of Human Settlements has realized the importance of close collaborations with innovative technology certificate holders by improving communication as well as providing guidance on the processes to be followed when approaching the Department with an innovative product, hence these guidelines.

The concept of innovation and technology in housing originates from the desire to illustrate that the housing sector can be transformed such that the housing needs of the poor are catered for in a manner that gives options in housing developments. These technology innovations can assist and be used as a vehicle for skills transfer, and job creation, for providing quick to erect, quality, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing products that would aid in eradicating the housing backlog. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Human Settlements has initiated a process where it invites presentations for innovative products quarterly. Products are viewed and the providers of the alternative products are given a platform to sell their products and respond to questions and concerns that come up following their presentations. They are also informed of the quality assurance and registration with certain bodies within the housing industry and getting the necessary certificates for their products. The aim is to identify, draw in and support innovative housing systems developed locally and internationally, with the ultimate aim of providing a wider choice of quality and affordable homes to the housing beneficiaries and end-users.