READ THE CASE STUDY BELOW AND ANSWER THE QUESTIONS THAT FOLLOWS.

DdTech Solutions, a rapidly growing technology company based in Durban, has been contemplating expanding its operations into other provinces within South Africa. The management team has identified potential growth opportunities in Gauteng and the Western Cape, where demand for IT infrastructure services is on the rise. However, the expansion comes with challenges, including high operational costs, market saturation in the targeted provinces, and logistical issues. To aid in their decision$-$making process, DdTech$$s leadership team has employed both quantitative data, such as financial projections, and qualitative insights gathered from market experts. The company is also assessing potential risks posed by economic fluctuations and regulatory hurdles.

$2\mathrm{.}1$ Explain the key decision$-$making factors that DdTech Solutions should consider before

expanding its operations into other provinces. $(10)$

$2\mathrm{.}2$ Explain how DdTech Solutions can balance short$-$term financial pressures with long$-$term

strategic goals when planning its expansion into new provinces. $(10)$

$2\mathrm{.}3$ Analyse the potential long$-$term challenges DdTech Solutions may face if they expand into

Gauteng and the Western Cape