Textbook
Making a World of Difference: IT in a Global ContextISBN: 978-0-471-87724-0
Hardcover
300 pages
March 2001, ©2001
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Information Technology has become an essential component of
contemporary society, allowing much faster and more widespread
communication, not least through the growth of the Internet.
However, many issues concerned with the human aspects of the use of
IT remain problematic despite technological advances. An enhanced
ability to collect and process data, or to communicate
electronically across time and space, does not necessarily lead to
improved human communication and action. This book explores the
social aspects of computerisation, using a wide range of detailed
case studies, analysed from a variety of conceptual viewpoints. A
further distinctive feature of the book is that it draws on
empirical material from across the world as a whole, including
non-Western countries. It is argued that we should be using IT to
support a world in which diversity and difference are
respected.
Synopsis
Making a World of Difference provides a context for the whole debate about the relationship of people and computers. It looks at the role of IS/IT in a modern society and the way it impacts on people, companies, economics etc. Prof. Walsham readily acknowledges that this environment is rapidly changing and that it is therefore important not to focus too closely on current technologies or one particular system of thought, but consider them as one of many other alternatives. It is structured to be of use for academics and business audience - Part 1 is holistic and reflexive, while Parts 2 and 3 are written for the busy manager who can consider the key issues independently.
Synopsis
Making a World of Difference provides a context for the whole debate about the relationship of people and computers. It looks at the role of IS/IT in a modern society and the way it impacts on people, companies, economics etc. Prof. Walsham readily acknowledges that this environment is rapidly changing and that it is therefore important not to focus too closely on current technologies or one particular system of thought, but consider them as one of many other alternatives. It is structured to be of use for academics and business audience - Part 1 is holistic and reflexive, while Parts 2 and 3 are written for the busy manager who can consider the key issues independently.