Technology is a broad field of study that involves understanding how knowledge is creatively applied to organised tasks involving people and machines that meet sustainable goals. It is a critical area of knowledge that affects us in our daily lives, whether we are researching new technological innovations or utilising them to run our businesses. Technology is constantly changing our lives, bringing both advantages and disadvantages. From medical breakthroughs to increased life expectancy to the possibility of surveillance and automation, it’s impossible to ignore the power that technology has on our daily lives.
While most technologies spread or fade on the basis of free-market forces, there are times when the use of a specific technology becomes an issue subject to public debate and perhaps formal regulation. This is the case, for example, with contour plowing, vaccination, genetic engineering and nuclear energy.
Even the most sophisticated technology operates within a system of constraints, which are sometimes absolute (physical laws and physical properties), others are less rigid (financial limitations, regulatory concerns, public opposition), and still more ephemeral (like the risk of side effects). Reaching a design compromise among these constraints requires people who understand the full range of benefits, risks, and costs in order to make informed decisions about their appropriate use.
Technology also allows people to better manage their time by reducing the amount of manual work required for certain tasks. It can also save money by automating processes and ensuring improved accuracy. For example, using digital communication software in place of paper-based systems can increase the speed and efficiency of business operations and reduce the likelihood of errors that may occur with manual processes.