Information Technology is made up of both information and technology.
What is Information? This is processed data with a meaning or an organized, meaningful and useful interpretation of data.
What is Technology? Technology is humans using objects (tools, machines, systems, and materials) to change the natural and human-made environment.
What are the characteristics of good Information?
- It has to be accurate
- Must be relevant to basic purposes
- Complete in respect to the key elements of the problem
- It has to be Timely (should be communicated in time to be used )
- It has to be consistent and reliable
- It has to be Up-to-date
- Easy to understand
- It has to be tailored to the needs of managers and end users
What are the characteristics of Technology?
- Technology is human knowledge
- Technology uses tools, materials and systems.
- Its application will result into artifacts (human-made things )
- Technology is developed by people to modify their environment.
Information technology has become a major driving force in many organizations. These organizations are seeking to get IT applications which can help them sell their products or services effectively. For example, by use of Internet, organizations or businesses are moving information faster and they also coordinate multiple activities to achieve efficiency. They also use the internet to sell their services or products. Information technology has changed businesses, education so many other sectors. In the business world it has helped in creating a ”networked economy” where businesses are linked with their suppliers, customers, manufacturers and business partners in real time. So in this case we look at Information Technology as an enabler and as an industry for the economic development. Below I have listed a few detailed points on the importance and functions of information technology.
