ICT's in a global context Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

ICT's in a global context - Article Example The Internet has also led to an increase in globalisation. Businesses are now able to expand and provide their services and goods in other countries; international financial institutions have been created, and the advanced modes of transportation have all contributed to the spread of globalisation (Global Policy Forum 2008). ICT has been instrumental in business, education, health and politics, but this too comes at a price. The Internet has made communication easier through sharing information. "As of 2006, according to Internet World Stats, around 70% of the population in the United States is on the Internet. Throughout the world, there are almost 1.1. billion users of the Internet as of 2006 and half of them reside in Europe and Asia" (Get ISP.info 2008).This number seems rather small when considering that it only represents about 1/6 of the population. Given this, worldwide use of the Internet is expected to increase. ICT has provided a means for people around the world to communicate with each other, but what price do we pay for such a convenience' If only 1/6 of the world population is on the Internet, this suggests that either the rest of the population does not own a computer, or they are just not interested in the Internet. Either way, several people will be left behind because they do not have knowledge of the Internet or how it works. ICT has had a significant influence on the economy. The production of goods in the global market has increased dramatically, and more avenues have opened for trade amongst different countries. This, in turn, creates more jobs for people and higher revenues for businesses. These businesses also benefit from ICT because of the creation of E-business. "E-business allows for information to be acquired and goods and services purchased via the Internet with increasing trust, speed and volume" (Enterprise and Industry, 2008, p. 1). This proves to be a problem for those who do not have the necessary capital to compete in such a market. What about small business owners who do not have the advantage of providing their services to global markets' In this case, they may be forced out of business because the larger companies are far more advanced technologically (Enterprise and Industry 2008). ICT has also had a significant impact on how companies are able to market their services and goods. Websites have provided an easier way for consumers to shop and pay for their products online. (ERDF 2008). The formation of networks within businesses also provided a way to share secure information via a server. Networks allow for pertinent information to be stored in a central location so that all employees have access to it. This also allows for businesses to maintain their competitive edge given that they have the most up-to-date technology and software. Staff also needs to be trained on how to operate new equipment in order to help develop the company, and provide quality services to its customers. Along with the impact that it has had on businesses, ICT has also contributed to globalisation. Emails, airplanes, boats, phone services, and computers have all made it easier for world countries to communicate and depend on one another. There are now more international laws and social movements that were formed based on