There are indications of concern by governments for public opinion even centuries ago. The use of
scientific research though, was only introduced by governments to enhance the effectiveness of
government communication and the dissemination of government information during the last few
decades of the twentieth century. The main aim with this research is to contribute towards improving
the research used in South Africa by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)
in order to enhance the effectiveness of government communication and the dissemination of
government information. As research can contribute towards enhancing the effectiveness of
government communication and the dissemination of government information, it is considered as being
of critical importance to contribute towards improving the quality of relevant research in South Africa.
No research has been conducted before in South Africa regarding the use of research to enhance the
effectiveness of government communication and the dissemination of government information. The
methodology used to address the aim and objectives of this research was that of a qualitative,
non-empirical study conducted by means of a literature review.
The research provides a brief theoretic overview of research in communication. It records the use of
communication research by government in South Africa since 1936 as well as the process of
transforming government communication after 1994. Furthermore, it records government
communication and information dissemination in other countries, with specific reference to the use of
research.
Various conclusions derive from this research. Among these is a clear indication of the necessity of
conducting communication research in a scientific way, by applying sound theoretical principles. It also
indicates that there is a good platform and strategic framework from which government communication
research in South Africa can be improved further, and that South Africa can learn from relevant
research conducted by governments in other countries. The researcher presents a wide range of
recommendations for consideration, as well as potential areas for further research regarding this
broader theme.
