The importance of technology in the workplace

It's not an overstatement to say that technology has completely changed the world of work over the last decade, and even the last five years. Simply by listing some of the most important recent technology developments we can easily appreciate just how far-reaching these changes have been.

 

Technology has transformed the business world

Of course the overarching technology that has revolutionised business communications is the Internet. However, there are other developments that we can identify:

• Voice over IP (VoIP) and video conferencing
  These allow personnel from widely distributed or remote locations to communicate with each other, hold meetings and collaborate.
  
  
• Cloud computing
  The cloud is more than just a technology. It is an entire business paradigm that is changing almost every aspect of how we do business – from the IT infrastructure that we use, to where and how we store and access our data.
  
  
• Mobile technology and devices
  Mobile devices have become fully integrated into the business world. Smartphones and tablets have made it possible for people to work while on the move, running apps that use data from a centrally accessible location.
  
  
• The Internet of Everything
  RFID cards can be inserted into a multitude of devices, allowing them to communicate with each other. For example, the latest soft drink vending machines allow one to communicate with them via a smartphone to customise flavours.

 

What does this mean for you as a student?

Technology has had such an impact that, no matter what subject you want to study or what career you wish to follow, you have to make sure that you are tech-savvy.

Technology now almost completely drives the business world. It underpins the operations of all companies, and provides the majority of the tools that everyone uses in the workplace. Most job interviews will include an assessment of your technological abilities – for example, which Microsoft suites you are familiar with, or which smartphone applications you would use to perform your work.

So it's very important that you know how to use the technology and tools that apply to your chosen field.

In fact, you should start becoming familiar with technology as early as possible during your education. In previous articles on this blog I've highlighted the ways in which different types of technology can help in the classroom. If your school has access to these technologies, then by using them you are already preparing yourself for the world of work.

Certainly, by the time you reach university or college, you should be using technology as much as you can, even if it's only for assignments or research.

At the same time, it's an unfortunate fact of the current climate that not everyone can afford some of the basic technology required in the modern study and work environment – like laptops or tablets.

 

We can help you access the technology you need

Eduloan, as the education specialist, has partnered with DG Stores to give you access to technology, in the form of affordable finance options on items such as laptops and tablets.

The process is easy and convenient. You can simply go to our online store, select what you need, and apply for finance at the same time. There are no forms to fill in by hand, no deposits to pay, and no hidden costs. Once your technology loan is approved, your device will be delivered to you.

This is another way in which we unlock potential - by providing access to the technology that enables education. It's part of how we help people to fulfil their dreams and aspirations, and be productive members of our communities and society. Let's start a conversation. Let me know what you think here or connect with me on Twitter (@EduloanSA)