Technology is a broad topic that encompasses everything from the sublime of planetary science to the mundane act of changing gear while driving a car. As such, it’s often difficult to pin down what exactly is meant by the term – but this article explores some key concepts that are central to understanding Technology as a knowledge discipline.
Technology has a fractal nature: it grows out of itself rather than arriving as some sort of magical discovery. This fact is critical to understanding its role in the context of ToK, since technology is a means to an end rather than an end in itself. Technology is a powerful way to route people’s finite energy and attention in a direction of their choosing, and thus implicitly endorses certain routes and ends above others.
This process of prioritization is what enables technology to evolve and develop over time, and why seemingly promising early technologies sometimes stall midway through their development. It is also why it’s often difficult to directly translate scientific results or engineering designs into usable products. It is often the case that successful technologies are iterative, developing in stages that allow researchers to refine and test the underlying ideas and their implementation.
When used effectively, IT can significantly improve the efficiency and productivity of businesses across all sectors. It is a vital tool that supports modern business operations, enabling seamless communication and collaboration between employees across the globe. It also reduces the burden on staff, freeing them up to focus on innovation and other business-critical tasks.