Technology is a word that describes both artifacts and the methods used to create them. It also describes the way in which such artifacts are used and the extent to which they can be manipulated. The term may apply to both natural and artificial products. It is often a synonym for the term ‘instrument’ and, in this sense, it can refer to all the tools or instruments used by man to accomplish his work.
The most common use of the word is to describe objects or systems designed for a specific purpose. Such technologies can be complex and require a lot of knowledge to design, build, and operate them. They can also be expensive. In addition to their initial cost, they can require substantial energy to construct or operate. They can produce wastes that need to be disposed of safely. They can disrupt traditional social hierarchies or cause pollution or harm to people or animals.
Some of the most important uses of technology involve democratising access to education, information, and communications. Many people who would otherwise not have access to an education can now learn anything they want through online courses and universities. This is especially true in developing countries where the infrastructure needed to provide education is not always available.
Businesses also use technology to improve their efficiency and quality of production. By automating repetitive tasks, they can reduce their reliance on manual labor and decrease the likelihood of errors that occur during manual processes. They can also rely on technology to analyse large volumes of data and make more informed business decisions.