Technology encompasses everything from the sublime of planetary science to the mundane of changing gear while driving a car or brushing your teeth. Investigating this intervening power is a way of opening up what it means to be ‘designed’ and’material’ in our definition of technology as a designed, material means to an end.
Most people think of gadgets when they hear the word technology – mobile phones, computers, TV’s, HiFi’s and even robotic grass cutters. From a business point of view, however, technology can mean the underlying systems and processes that enable a company to operate efficiently, meet regulatory requirements or achieve competitive advantage.
This often includes the use of technology tools to facilitate communication, manage workflows and complete administrative tasks such as customer service. For example, a company’s website might provide customers with instantaneous support to help resolve issues.
A company may also adopt technology to increase productivity or improve employee morale. For example, automation of manual processes can free up time for employees to focus on more creative or fulfilling work. It can also help businesses to scale their operations more easily and efficiently. Moreover, it can reduce the risk of human error and provide real-time data and analytics to drive better decision making. The right technology is a valuable asset for any business. It can make a significant difference to how quickly you are able to respond to customer enquiries or deliver an improved product or service.
