About KRS · 1987–2026
People, ideas and the problems worth solving. Explore the chapters that shape Khanyisa Real Systems, from our beginnings to what comes next.
1987
Real Systems cc is registered by Steve Mabbutt and Lorraine Steyn, laying the foundations for what would become Khanyisa Real Systems. What begins at a dining room table grows into a business built on solving real business problems through software. By 1989, Steve and Lor commit to running the business full time, managing and developing the Freight Manager software package.
1993
Following its achievement of R1 million in turnover in 1992, the company moves to new premises in Bryanston. The move provides room for an expanding team and reflects the momentum of a business continuing to grow its client base, capabilities and ambitions.
1996
KRS establishes its first Cape Town office in Wynberg, with Michael MacDougal as director. The team delivers its first project, PresLes, laying the foundations for what would become a significant development hub for the business. The Cape Town operation grows rapidly over the following years, setting the stage for the company’s continued expansion.
2001
With development increasingly centred in Cape Town, smaller teams continue to operate in Johannesburg and Pretoria. As the business grows, KRS outgrows its existing premises and moves to Harfield House, marking another step in its growth and its expanding presence in Cape Town.
2003
The company is renamed Khanyisa Real Systems (KRS). Khanyisa, meaning “to illuminate”, captures the company’s ambition to bring clarity, insight and innovation to the challenges its clients face. The new name marks an important chapter in the company’s evolution and the values that continue to shape its work.
2008
KRS moves to larger premises in Rondebosch, reflecting the company’s continued growth and ambition. With an expanding team, growing client relationships and increasing demand for its software solutions, the move marks another important step in the company’s journey. The business sets an ambitious annual turnover target of R15 million, signalling its confidence in the opportunities ahead.
2017
KRS marks its 30th anniversary with a major celebration, bringing together current and former colleagues, long-standing clients and leaders from the tech community. A milestone that reflects not only three decades in business, but the lasting relationships and connections built along the way.
2020
With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, KRS transitions to fully remote work. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the company continues to grow.
2026
KRS acquires its Waverley Park office in Observatory and, with a team of close to 90 people, embraces a hybrid working model. Employees come together in the office at least one day a week, creating space for collaboration, connection and shared learning. Leadership maintains a stronger office presence to support teams and stay connected to the day-to-day business.
New ideas. Meaningful challenges. Conversations that move us forward.
