Impact Of Information Communication Technology

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In modern times Information Communication Technology (ICT) has become ever-present in life. Sometimes it feels as though it is encroaching on daily routine but the advantages it offers in both personal and working life are prodigious. This essay will examine the impact ICT currently has, on private life and at work. The issues arising from the developments of these technologies will also be given consideration. Furthermore legislation relevant to ICT will be examined to ensure there is adequate protection to keep us safe from the risks inherent in the ICT product.
ICT is an umbrella term that refers to the wide array of technology that has been developed to give access to, receive or send information through telecommunications. These technologies breakdown into hardware and software. Hardware encompasses the devices used, whilst the software is the operating technology that the hardware requires to function. Examples of modern communication technologies include mobile phones, computer networks, laptops and the internet. Technologies are constantly being updated or replaced by more advanced devices or software. This is occurring at such speed that what is seen as cutting edge, goes to old fashioned and then obsolete, in a short period of time. Currently we are living in the “Information Age”, characterised by the abundance of Information and Communication Technologies. The past few decades has seen the development of an array of communication devices that allow people to communicate in real time. Technologies such as instant messaging, voice and video conferencing and social networking sites allow people across the world to connect with each other. (Tech Terms, 2010)
ICT has changed the way we live our lives. Whether at w...

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...ologies. Undoubtedly this has streamlined the way we do business but also bestowed new legislative responsibilities on workers. Under legislation, the data and information held in the workplace must be stored and disseminated correctly and the workplace designed ergonomically. However if technologies continue their rapid advance, challenges will lie ahead to protect ICT workers and the data held by organisations. If the exponential development of ICT continues, as it has in the last decades, many challenges will lie ahead. The advantages it may bring will be mirrored by negative effects on personal and vocational life. Society needs to prepare for this or brace itself for the consequences.
“Bounds should be set, To ingenuity for being so cruel, In bringing change unheralded on, The unready” (Robert Frost) (Dictionary.com, 2014)

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