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Making a World of Difference

IT in a Global Context

Geoff Walsham author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:John Wiley & Sons Inc

Published:29th Jan '01

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

Making a World of Difference cover

Information Technology has become an essential component of contemporary society, allowing much faster and more widespread communication, not least through the growth of the Internet. However, many issues concerned with the human aspects of the use of IT remain problematic despite technological advances. An enhanced ability to collect and process data, or to communicate electronically across time and space, does not necessarily lead to improved human communication and action. This book explores the social aspects of computerisation, using a wide range of detailed case studies, analysed from a variety of conceptual viewpoints. A further distinctive feature of the book is that it draws on empirical material from across the world as a whole, including non-Western countries. It is argued that we should be using IT to support a world in which diversity and difference are respected.
Synopsis
Making a World of Difference provides a context for the whole debate about the relationship of people and computers. It looks at the role of IS/IT in a modern society and the way it impacts on people, companies, economics etc. Prof. Walsham readily acknowledges that this environment is rapidly changing and that it is therefore important not to focus too closely on current technologies or one particular system of thought, but consider them as one of many other alternatives. It is structured to be of use for academics and business audience - Part 1 is holistic and reflexive, while Parts 2 and 3 are written for the busy manager who can consider the key issues independently.

" ... an extremely stimulating, thoughtful, and engaging contribution ..." (Scandinavian Journal of Management, Vol.18 2002) 

"…considerable strength…main value if the book lies in the numerous and wide-ranging case studies…" (Organization Studies, Vol.24, No.2.)

"…a rich source of inspiration for further studies…" (Knowledge Management, July 2003)

ISBN: 9780471877240

Dimensions: 241mm x 158mm x 21mm

Weight: 595g

300 pages