Technology- The applications of practical, mechanical, electrical and related sciences to industry and related commerce.
Technology influences industry and commerce in many ways:
· Robotics
· Automation (stock control)
· Communications
· Design
Robotics:
· Handling operations
· Welding
· Other production applications (e.g. dispensing liquid, painting and coating materials)
· Assembling
· Packaging and palletising
· Measurement, inspection and testing
· Hazardous applications
Automation- The use of machinery to replace people in the production process, usually to carry out routine activities.
Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)- The use of computers to undertake activities such as planning, operating and controlling production.
Planning and controlling:
· Computers can be used to plan the most efficient way of producing a product.
· Production can be monitored by the computer and remedial action taken if problems arise.
Operating:
· CAM has increased productivity and reduced the problems arising from human error.
· Flexible programming allows a fully automated line to produce different varieties.
Technology and communications- Electronically sharing information. Systems that analyse and interpret data to information to establish knowledge through electronic means.
· It allows a firm to improve both internal and external communications, improving efficiency and the firm’s understanding of its market.
· Internal information can be processed and amended more quickly.
· Company intranets enable employees and where necessary suppliers and customers to access company information continually.
· Technology increases the speed of communication and the scope for greater responsibility. It allows firms to delayer and operate wider spans of control.
· Loyalty cards allows firms to accumulate information on the buying habits of customers.
Technology influences industry and commerce in many ways:
· Robotics
· Automation (stock control)
· Communications
· Design
Robotics:
· Handling operations
· Welding
· Other production applications (e.g. dispensing liquid, painting and coating materials)
· Assembling
· Packaging and palletising
· Measurement, inspection and testing
· Hazardous applications
Automation- The use of machinery to replace people in the production process, usually to carry out routine activities.
Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)- The use of computers to undertake activities such as planning, operating and controlling production.
Planning and controlling:
· Computers can be used to plan the most efficient way of producing a product.
· Production can be monitored by the computer and remedial action taken if problems arise.
Operating:
· CAM has increased productivity and reduced the problems arising from human error.
· Flexible programming allows a fully automated line to produce different varieties.
Technology and communications- Electronically sharing information. Systems that analyse and interpret data to information to establish knowledge through electronic means.
· It allows a firm to improve both internal and external communications, improving efficiency and the firm’s understanding of its market.
· Internal information can be processed and amended more quickly.
· Company intranets enable employees and where necessary suppliers and customers to access company information continually.
· Technology increases the speed of communication and the scope for greater responsibility. It allows firms to delayer and operate wider spans of control.
· Loyalty cards allows firms to accumulate information on the buying habits of customers.