The pervasive acceptability of a revolution from monodirectional push-based media broadcasting to a bidirectional interactive pull-based internet protocol television (IPTV) has spotted significant development in recent years. The pervasive acceptability is because of the mammoth number of exhilarating television (TV) channels that IPTV offers. However, the channel switching feature of a TV system requires additional development despite the increased implementation of IPTV systems worldwide. Subscribers of IPTV services must be able to swiftly explore live TV stations and video contents of interest seamlessly, but zapping delay is a deterrent that occurs during a channel change that causes a significant glitch in IPTV systems. Many of the literature approaches such as channel prediction based on behavior analysis have shown flaws in resolving zapping delay. The approach of this study uses adaptive channel switching with a personalized electronic program guide to resolving zapping delay. The resolution saves the subscribers the time of channel navigation by eliminating the need to search for channels they want to view.

Purpose This study aims to assess the status of the digital records preservation practices in the South African public sector at the national department level. It set out to establish to what extent digital preservation policies have been implemented in South Africa’s public sector, to determine the related skills and competency of public sector staff, and to make any necessary recommendations of the basis of the results. Design/methodology/approach A content review of Southern Africa literature dealing with the preservation of digital records, its importance and related factors over the past 20 years was conducted. Findings The current state of preservation of South African digital records suggests serious consequences of existing knowledge and training gaps. Addressing those gaps may provide the knowledge needed to support new ways of working. Records management professionals in the South African public sector at the national department level are currently ill-equipped to adequately preserve digital records. This complicates the application of tools offered by the information and communication technologies that have resulted in increased creation of digital records. Research limitations/implications The study was limited to only the public sector of South Africa. Practical implications The study makes practical implications concerning the policy framework for improving the state of digital preservation in South Africa so as to ensure long-term preservation of digital records. For instance, government departments are recommended to formulate and implement in-house policy frameworks, guidelines and plans that address digital preservation of records. Social implications Sufficient funding and resource allocation ought to be provided to advance electronic records management programmes. In addition, the formulation of proper strategies needed to preserve digital records should incorporate technological tools and media software in the existing operations for the creation, capturing, appraising and preserving of digital records. Originality/value This study offers informed recommendations to address the challenges of preserving digital records in South Africa so that future losses may be avoided and allow readers to see changes over the 20-year period.