Technology is the process of creating and using tools, machinery and equipment. It can also be used to describe the methods and techniques used in different fields, such as construction or medical science.
Technological advances, such as the invention of fire, helped humans control their environment and hunt for food. More recent technological developments, such as the Internet and cellular phones, have reduced barriers to communication and allowed humans to interact with each other globally. Although the development of technology can help to improve quality of life, it is not without its critics. Many modern societies are concerned that the use of technology is destroying the natural world and that industrialization has created an over-reliance on machines. This concern has led to the rise of movements such as eco-village.
In a business context, the term technology refers to all the tools, hardware and software that are used in the operation of a company. It is important for businesses to keep up with the latest technology so that they can stay competitive and continue to serve their customers. Technology can be used to facilitate information flow with in a business, so that decisions can be made quickly and customers can be served efficiently.
Often, the invention of a new technology is a step-by-step process. It is rare that a scientific discovery or engineering project can be turned into a fully developed technology straight away. This is why apparently promising early technologies often stall midway through their development.