Johannesburg - The Oxford Business Group launched a nine-month study of South Africa's economy in partnership with the department of trade and industry (DTI) on Wednesday.
"When the report is published next year, the conclusions will help brand South Africa as a destination for investment and business," said DTI chief director in the international trade division Brendan Vickers.
With Africa being the second fastest growing developing region after Asia, and South Africa being the economic hub of the African continent, in-depth studies would contribute to a greater understanding of the environment.
Robert Tashima, who will edit The Report: South Africa 2012 said South Africa could not be accused of being boring and bland, and that applied to business too.
"South Africa clearly stands out as a dynamic market," he said.
Its policies had buffeted it against economic turmoil and its gross domestic product, although not ideal, was stable.
"Many of South Africa's financial institutions are among the most recognised brands across the continent," Tashima said.
However, the country also featured unemployment, inequality and an overwhelmed infrastructure.
The dynamism of South Africa's economy complicated research processes.
To get a fuller picture, researchers would have to understand the nuances of the economy and go "beyond numbers", Tashima said.
The Oxford group is paying for the study.