Information: A strategic resource for technological change

Abstract

Our society, formerly industrial, is nowadays changing into an 'e-society', built on technology, information, communication and knowledge. This transition is facilitated by the tremendous developments in the Technology of Information and Communication (TIC). In this 'e-society' a new model of organisation is developing: the classical hierarchy is changed into a network designed organisation. From an economic viewpoint companies and the state are aiming at the maximisation of their profits, privileging cost-effective activities and reducing their cost. From a social viewpoint the present social system is more based on economical subsistence than focused on the essential needs of individuals. This results in serious social troubles, such as protestation, inequalities, and potentially aggressive frustrations. Exclusion is increasing in micro-societies as well as in cultures. The spread of new technologies produces a gap between those who can contribute and those who are left behind, creating the risk of cyber-exclusion. Only a sustainable development approach in governance will be able to balance the real needs of the citizens with respect to social, economic and environmental issues. © 2005 by International Federation for Information Processing.