CHAPTER 8

THE AGE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Learning Objectives:
1. Explain the nature and purpose of information technology;
2. Expound on how information technology defies time and space;
3. Evaluate on the impact of information technology on the different aspects of human life;
and
4. Articulate on the uses of information technology.

What is Information Technology?

Information is a processed data with a meaning. It is organized, and has a useful
interpretation of data. On the other hand, technology has to do with tools, machines, and systems
to apply change in a human-made environment. This implies that information technology (IT) is
the transmission of information requiring the use of systems specifically computers, and
telecommunications, for storing, retrieving and sending information.
The Information Technology Association of America defined Information Technology as “the
study, design, development, application, implementation, support or management of
computer-based information systems.”
Information Communication Technology (ICT) is also known as information technology (IT)
which denotes the convergence of telecommunication networks with computer networks through
a link system later known as fiber optics. ICT covers storage, retrieval, manipulation and
transmission of information in a digital form. This happens through the use of desktops,
emails, podcast, vodcast, cloud storage and the like.

Developments in Information Communication Technology (ICT)

1. Cloud Computing
One of the most innovative terms in information technology, clouding computing is defined as
the usage of computing services through a software as well as hardware. It is a service over a
network which is the Internet.
2. Mobile Application
A trend within information technology is the use of mobile applications which are actually
software applications on smart phones, androids and the like. Mobile application or mobile app
is a complete success since its introduction in the commercial market. Apps are designed to
run on smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices.
3. User Interfaces
User interface has undergone a revolution since introduction of touch screen. The touch screen
capability has revolutionized way end users interact with application. Touch screen enables the
user to directly interact with what is displayed and removes any intermediate hand-held device
like the mouse. Touch screen capability is utilized in smart phones, tablet, information kiosks
and other information appliances.
4. Analytics
It is a process which helps in discovering the informational patterns within a data. The field of
analytics is a combination of statistics, computer programming and operations research. Data
analytics can be used to support decision-making process as it converts raw data into
meaningful information. On the other hand, predictive analytics is used to forecast events based
on current and historical information while social media analytics as a tool is for companies to
understand and accommodate customer needs and requirements.

The Significance Impact of Information Technology

1. The Rise of E-Commerce
2. Remote Work (WFH)
3. Distance Education
4. Cyber Crimes