The rapid development of information systems and technology brings some positive effects to individuals. In order to use information systems effectively, individuals need to acquire skills and knowledge on using different computer technology. Take an example of an individual working in a project on market research, he needs to learn the way to use spreadsheets for analysing the data. The new knowledge acquired by the individuals will lead to upskilling effect. The innovation of technology brings a lot more new channels of communication, such as e-mail and instant messaging applications, it increases interaction between individuals. The barriers of location is eliminated by technology, people can communicate with one another in anywhere around the world through Internet. In addition, virtual office and work from home are becoming a common practice for companies, people can enjoy more flexibility in working locations and hours, and this is particularly beneficial to individuals who have young children at home.
However, information systems and technology still brings negative impacts to individuals. Technological innovation may cause redundancy which leads to unemployment problem. Individuals working in factories and highly computerised companies will be mostly affected. Their jobs may be replaced by robots or automated machines. Information systems and technologies are ever-changing, people may find it difficult to keep up-to-date. Some software and application programmes are always updating to
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