Continuing advancements in technology offer many excit- ing possibilities forhow workers work and managers man- age. Technology includesany equipment, tools, or operating methods that are designedtomakework moreefficient. One area in which technology has had an impact is in the pro- cess by which inputs(labour, rawmaterials, and the like) are transformed into outputs (goods and services to be sold). In years past, this transformation was usually performed by human labour. With technology, however, human labour has beenreplaced with electronic and computer equipment. Whether through robots in offices, online banking systems, or social networks where employees interact with custom- ers, technology has made the work ofcreating and deliver- ing goods and services more efficient and effective. Another area in which technology has had a major impact is in information. Information technology (IT) has created the ability to circumvent the physicalconfines of working only in a specified organizational location. With notebook and desktop computers, tablets, smartphones, organizational intranets, and other IT tools, organizational members who work mainly with information can do that work from any place at any time. Finally, technology is also changing the way manag- ers manage, especially in terms of how they interact with employees who may be working anywhere and anytime. Effectively communicating with telecommuting individu- als who may simply be working from home or who may be working halfway around the world and ensuring that work goals are being met are challenges that managers must address. Throughout the rest of the book, we'll look at how managers are meeting those challenges in the ways they plan, organize, lead, and control.

THINKING STRATEGICALLY ABOUT 3BL

1. What are the 3BL implications for the Internet of Things?

2. Is management easier or harder with all the available technology? Explain your position.

3. What benefits does technology provide, and what problems does technology pose for (a) employees and (b)managers?