Advantages and Disadvantages of Information Technology
In this advanced and constantly evolving information age, where you are being provided the right information at the right timing, a question that whether we are unnecessarily being dependent on IT or is Information technology worth it , is always raised. The way humans work and communicate with one another have completely changed and that is just because of Information technology. The truth is, how rapidly and profoundly the current digital revolution is breaking down the old and traditional methods is yet to be realized. This essay aims to weigh the pros and cons of information technology, let’s have a look below.
Advantages of Information Technology
Enhanced protection of data
Abundance of information is shared on the internet today. To keep this data safe and protected, electronic storage systems are being created to accumulate that information. For example, customer’s files and company’s documents are secured and maintained in virtual volts created with the help of information technology. Moreover, security systems are kept in place to shield the important electronic information and keep it safe if system breakdown happens. Information technology also keeps hackers at bay with intense security systems.
Ease of work
After the implication of an information technology system, the company gives its employees the access to connect with its network electronically. This allows employees to telecommute and bestows them with more flexibility. It enhances their performances and eventually benefits the company because employees can still work when not in the office. This facility also cuts down on many unnecessary expenses that occur when employees have to travel long distances to reach office. Many organizations have also revealed that this scenario lets them save the cost of the company and use those funds to incentivize the employees.
Eliminates gaps
With the help of information technology, global and cultural gaps have been shrunk to a great extent. To elaborate, by implementing information systems, geographical, linguistic, and many cultural boundaries can be brought down. Now, communication and relationships among countries have gotten better and the world is becoming a global village.
New job opportunities
The field of Information technology has helped in creating many interesting jobs. For example, jobs like Computer Programming, Hardware and Software developers and Web designers are in demand and many people are learning these skills and getting paid well in the IT sector.
Disadvantages of IT
Dominant nature
IT is a Dominant culture. It may have made the world a global village, but the fact that it has contributed to one culture that is dominating another weaker one cannot be denied. A big and easily palpable example is the dominance of English language in business and in the ordinary world. Also, it now argued that US culture influences how most adolescents all over the world now act, dress and behave.
Anti-social employees
although this technology has introduced various platforms to communicate with each other, it is noticed that people who have adopted the use of technological devices have also experienced a deterioration in their social skills. Because most of the time is being spent using laptops and mobile phones there has been a change in individual behaviors. Physical interaction has been reduced and people are connected virtually which is taking a toll on their social life.
Cyber-Sickness and Health issues
Now people can be seen getting addicted to social networks and are spending more than required time on computers. They are rejecting their normal offline life which is making them feel isolated and socially inept. Many researches have shown that this trend is putting a strain on their health. Various doctors and researchers are also concerned about possible connections between technology and heart problems. Other than this, obesity, eye strain, and deafness are some common issues that people with relentless use of these devices are experiencing.
Is IT really secured?
With hackers always around, security issues will always be there. Doesn’t matter how secure your network is, your vendor‘s information, your bank records, and personal data or intellectual property are always at risk. The hackers can spread the information over the Internet or can sell it to the competing companies. Not only this, some may use it to besmirch the company’s reputation.
Complete reliance on IT
The Internet has become the most important part of human’s life, however, it seems that it is making people lethargic. For example, students no longer solve equations and do research on topics as now they can just perform a Google search and can have everything on their plate.
No doubt, the Information system helps in the efficient running of organizations. Each decade, it is showing exponential growth. But we have to be prudent as the disadvantages can impact on organizations and society adversely and if it does, it will be hard to reverse the situation.