IT flattens organizations

Despite the fact I am pretty comfortable with computers and work in IT that thought must go through my head everyday. There is no doubt computers and IT in general have caused a great deal of frustration for a lot of people. They have also, of course, connected these same people to the world and created great efficiencies and productivity in business and personal life so I guess we can't be too hard on them... or can we...?

As chapter 3 illustrates IT flattens organizations. This is a very nice way of saying it replaces people. The chapter has some discussion surrounding the different organizational types and their reactions to change in their business stemming from IT. There is little wonder employees in large corporations will sometimes resist the change a new IT system can bring. It will not only be the cause of some frustration when trying to adjust but it can also end up costing them a job!

With more information spread to the lower levels in an organization and the productivity increase resulting from IT systems, middle managers are dropping like flies. Big businesses are all trying to be lean, mean global machines and that means being more informed and more efficient than anyone else. One of the ways they are getting there is by reducing the cost of employment. This is the certainly the price we pay but there is little choice if a company wants to keep pace or differentiate themselves in a global setting.

Even though this is true IT has also provided as many opportunities as it has taken away. Those that have learned the nuances of the IT business have profited greatly. Consumers and businesses alike are finding better ways to add value to the things they purchase because of IT. Besides how hard would it be to do our jobs without the systems that support us? How difficult would it be to live without the conveniences technology brings?

Just try and remember the next time you are ready to pitch your PC out the window how hard your life would be without it... :D

I would also like to remind you that there are people out there that are less computer savvy than you no matter how bad you are! LOL