We have all seen new advances in technology that have amazed and astounded us. In the workplace technology is revolutionizing the way we do business. At home it is changing the way we view the world, the way we get information, and the way we entertain ourselves. And while new technology has many advantages there are also disadvantages; I will discuss both here.

In the workplace mobile and consumer technologies allow employees to work when and where they want. Many forward thinking companies are developing new strategies with these new technologies in mind. Those companies are reporting encouraging results. With over 70 percent reporting improved sales, and over half reporting improved returns.

As you can see, technology can be an important part of today’s workplace

However there are also recognizable disadvantages. One of the main problems with tech in the workplace is the risk of constant distractions. Emailing, web training, Skype, and cell phones can all be a recipe for confusion and distractions at work. Loss in communication skills is also a potential problem posed by technology.

As we tweet, Facebook, Skype, and email. We are not required to learn and use the listening, and social skills required in building professional relationships.

At home social media sites like Facebook and twitter help us keep up with family and friends, especially the ones we do not see very often. It allows us to express ourselves, and even make new friends.

Facebook is always there. On sleepless nights, or busy days, you can always log in to check up on loved ones, send a quick message or just entertain yourself. Facebook also allows us to connect with old friends, or people we thought we might never see again. While social media has many great benefits there are also negatives. Cyber bullying has been a frequent topic lately, with several severe cases reported with dire consequences.  Social networks can sometimes cause us to lose some privacy, and can cause us to waste time that could be used on more productive endeavors such as academics.

Video games have become a favorite pastime for many of today’s youth, and adults alike

Gaming can be a lot of fun and has several hidden advantages as well. Studies have shown that video games can improve young children’s motor skills. Video games can also be a great way to relieve stress.

Gaming has been shown to improve vision in people with cataracts. Researchers also believe video games can help improve decision making skills. Drawbacks include violent games that may be inappropriate for children. Too much time spent gaming can have negative effects on other areas of life, such a school. There have been reported instances of gaming addiction. One South Korean man recently died after spending 50 hours straight gaming without a break.

Reports show that 98 percent of the U.S. households that are online use social media sites

That 75 percent of the world’s population now has cell phones, and 68 percent of the U.S. households play computer or video games. These recent technologies are changing the way we live, work, and play. The way we communicate, keep in touch, reconnect and express ourselves. We are finding new ways to unwind, learn, and process information.

However, we may create new problems as we rely on new technology. A decrease in interpersonal communication skills, due to electronic communication, is a potential problem. We give up privacy, become over involved and perhaps less productive as we spend more time socializing, gaming, emailing, texting, and tweeting. It remains to be seen if new technology will move us forward or ultimately set us back.

About the Author

Donna Lee is the technology lead at Edictive.com she holds an engineering degree from Berkeley California. Her other passion lies in the film industry and its technology.