1. Chapter 12 Technology in the Workplace
Business Communication
Chapter 12
Technology in the Workplace
Copyright South-Western Cengage Learning

2. Technology at Work
Technology: the application of scientific knowledge to practical tasks
Often refers to tools and machines
Makes work faster, easier, or safer
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Computer technology helps people communicate.
12.1 Computer Hardware and Software

3. Computer Hardware Desktop computers Laptop computers Tablet computers
Handheld computers
© Hewlett Packard
A handheld computer provides personal organizer and other types of programs.
12.1 Computer Hardware and Software

4. Computer Software Operating system software Application software
Utility software
Norton 360 is a popular utility program.
Using software
12.1 Computer Hardware and Software

5. File Storage and Management
Storage options
Compact disk (CD)
Digital video disk (DVD)
Flash memory
File compression
File management
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Flash memory drives are popular for backing up computer data.
12.1 Computer Hardware and Software

6. Peripherals Printers Scanners Fax machines
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Inkjet printers are popular peripherals for home and office use.
12.1 Computer Hardware and Software

7. The Connected World Technology aids worldwide communication LANs WANs
PANs
Bluetooth and WiFi
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Some cell phones use Bluetooth technology.
12.2 Other Technologies

8. The Internet
A vast network that connects millions of computers worldwide
World Wide Web
Hyperlinks
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Places that offer wireless Internet access are known as hotspots.
12.2 Other Technologies

9. Security Security threats Security solutions
Computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses
Hackers
Spyware
Security solutions
Procedures
Passwords
Firewalls
12.2 Other Technologies

10. Document Transmittal Transmittal methods Considerations
Interoffice mail, the U.S. Postal Service, and private carriers
Electronic transmission
Considerations
Speed
Cost
Need
Security
Format
12.2 Other Technologies

11. Pagers Handheld device that alerts receivers that they have a message
Small, suitable for slipping in a pocket or stowing in a purse
Useful for people who are away from their office but who might need to be contacted
12.2 Other Technologies

12. Voice Mail A computerized system that answers telephone calls
Used by many organizations
Users should record an appropriate greeting
Users should answers messages promptly
12.2 Other Technologies

13. Cell Phones Portable, wireless telephones
Change antenna connections during travel from one radio reception cell to another
Come in a variety of shapes and sizes
Have many features
12.2 Other Technologies

14. Smart Phones Popular with business users
Provide programs and other features not found on cell phones
Courtesy and safety
© PRNewsFoto/Verizon Wireless, Achille Bigliardi/NewsCom
A smart phone combines the features of a handheld computer and a cell phone.
12.2 Other Technologies

15. VoIP Voice over Internet protocol Digital phone service
Calls go through a high-speed Internet connection
Cost effective for many organizations
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VoIP is available for business and home use.
12.2 Other Technologies

16. Digital Cameras Record images in digital form rather than on film
Store images in the camera or on a memory device
Allow image files to be edited
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A digital camera creates images in a format that can be used on a computer.
12.2 Other Technologies

17. Global Positioning System
A worldwide navigation system consisting of satellites and ground stations
A GPS receiver can identify its location anywhere on Earth
Displays the location on a map for the user’s convenience
12.2 Other Technologies

18. Conference Technologies
Teleconference: allows people at different locations to talk with one another by telephone
Videoconference: allows people at different locations to see and hear each other
Web conference: a meeting that takes place over an Internet connection
12.2 Other Technologies

19. Training Technologies
Many jobs require on-the-job or continuing training
Training can increase worker productivity
Training is available on a wide range of topics
Traditional methods and online instruction are used to provide training
12.2 Other Technologies

20. Unethical Use of Computers and Networks
Follow rules set by employers for legal and proper use of computers and networks
Typical abuses to avoid:
Accessing confidential information
Harassing other users
Disrupting computing or network services
Stealing computing or network services
Transmitting obscene or pornographic material
Copying or using copyrighted materials
12.2 Other Technologies

21. Technology Vocabulary
Learning words and terms related to work help improve reading comprehension
Computer technology terms
Career-specific terms
12.2 Other Technologies

22. Workplace Safety Causes of injuries in offices
Attitudes that affect safety
Emergency plans
12.3 Workplace Safety and Ergonomics

23. Computer Use and Ergonomics
Repetitive stress injuries
Visions problems
© franksiteman.com 2007
Using proper position at the keyboard helps users avoid injury.
12.3 Workplace Safety and Ergonomics

24. Ergonomics and the Workstation
Arrange the work area
Do warm-up exercises
Check your keying position
Take frequent breaks
Avoid vision problems
Adapt for other computers
© Cengage Learning
A properly arranged work area helps users avoid injury.
12.3 Workplace Safety and Ergonomics

25. Ergonomic Equipment Padded wrist rest Ergonomic keyboard Mouse
Digital pen
Touch pad
Trackball
Special glasses
© Anna Dzondzua / Shutterstock
The touch pad is a popular pointing device.
12.3 Workplace Safety and Ergonomics

26. HFES Human Factors and Ergonomics Society
Provides training and resources for educating people about ergonomics
Questions
Students make up about what percentage of the HFES membership?
What three publications do members receive as benefits of membership?
school.cengage.com/bcomm/buscomm
12.3 Workplace Safety and Ergonomics

27. Vocabulary cell phone compact disk (CD) computer computer virus
digital video disk (DVD)
ergonomics
fax machine
firewall
global positioning system (GPS)
hacker
hardware
hotspots
hyperlinks
Internet
network
pager
peripherals
personal computer
scanner
smart phone
software
uniform resource locator (URL)
voice mail
VoIP
World Wide Web