Computers in the Workplace

       Information Technology has played a key role in the administrative field.  In my experience of just 10 years, I have realized there are several benefits to having knowledge of information technology in this field. Computers are the main functioning tool used in administration. Various forms of communication, programs, policies, & creating new streamlined & transparent processes are all done by using a computer, or in most cases several computers as a whole.

The Administrative Environment Before Computers...

This image depicts an administrative office in Great Britain from the 1940's. 

    Before computers, the administrative field functioned off of type writers, or manual documentation. communication ran verbally, or via telephone, mail, or in-person meetings for most. These processes though successful were more time consuming, and took much attention to detail in reference to using a type writer to formulate documents. Today, with the innovation of computers, working in the administrative field is in stark contrast to the past. We now have several tools available at our finger tips in the administrative field, that enable tasks & processes to run seamlessly with increased accuracy, saved time, & transparency. Employees in this industry only benefit from gaining knowledge in IT & applying it within their respective administrative fields. 

Why is Information Technology Vital in Administration?

        It is important for employees within administrative field to have at least some knowledge in IT because of the number of problems that can arise during their time in whatever sector they are employed. Networking, printer drivers, work cellphones, applications & systems all run into connection & capability related issues. I myself have experienced issues within all of these different areas and I was able to apply my basic knowledge in most cases to troubleshoot & solve the issue. At times, this can also help IT departments assist in areas where the administrative employees have no access to run tests in troubleshooting, depending on the offices network structure. Having this knowledge can also help with creating new streamlined processes, and teaching methods of time-saving capabilities that not all employees are aware of. The more knowledge an office as a whole has in this field can aid in its efficiency & accuracy on tasks, & massive projects.

AI provides advanced capabilities & benefits to the administrative industry as depicted.

Future Predictions of Info Tech in the Administrative Field

    Within the next 10 years, I think IT will impact the administrative sector significantly. We have already developed programs that provide easier transparency within processes such as TEAMS, & SharePoint. Virtual meetings for example, supports time management, & decreases lost man hours by not having to relocate from work-centers.

    A new innovation that I can predict would be further advancements in AI. Automated data analytics, updates, & decision support systems, will drive less man hours spent manually inputting data, & provide accurate real-time information better than can be provided by direct human input. This will save a significant amount of man-hours, leaving just the verification process & presentation or submission for employees to accomplish. I predict that AI in this use may have some accuracy shortfalls initially, however through advancements it will prove to be yet another key factor in the administrative field. This will also impact training environments as well by providing intelligent feedback, and information that can be manipulated to fit personal methods of learning.