Abstract
This chapter connects technology and diversity and argues that technology can be leveraged to contribute to the diversification of a workforce. The authors discuss the changing global economy as it pertains to the diminution of labor market boundaries and diversified consumers, as well as current trends in technology usage and innovation as a means to accomplishing organizational goals. In addition, the authors analyze organizational learning and organizational performance, regarding the use of technology as a tool to overcome the challenges of a diverse workforce.
TopChanging Global Economy
In the event that there is still a debate about the changing nature of the global economy, one needs only go to any supermarket, department store, or shopping centre. Simply surveying items in any aisle in almost any store, one will find evidence of manufacturing from different parts of the world. There is no longer just one main supplier. Even for the nations with large economies, their goods are often produced in or have components from emerging economies.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Knowledge Management System (KMS): An information system used to capture, organize, and create knowledge to enhance organizational processes.
Adaptive/Assistive Technology: Technologies that enable persons with disabilities to work more efficiently by adapting the information on computer screen to make it easier to read, translate it to Braille or other forms.
TCP/IP: Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol - Commonly referred to as TCP/IP, it is a standard that connects computers around the world to create what we have now come to know as the Internet.
Learning Management System (LMS): A software application that automates the administration, tracking and reporting of training events. (Ellis, 2009)
Emerging Economies/Markets: Low-income countries that through economic liberation, restructuring of government policies and the liberation of national trade agreements have achieved global shares of the international market.
Social Networking/Marketing: Social networking sites are Internet-based services that allow users to create public or semi-public profiles that connect them to other users (Boyd and Ellison, 2008)
Digital Divide: A gap between generations with regard to technology.
Learning Organization: An organization that identifies the employees as a long-term strategic investment and recognizes the vital importance to develop the unique individual competencies of each member.
Talent Management System (TMS): A comprehensive Human Resource process that integrates recruitment, performance management; compensation management, training and development, and succession planning.