Page 185 - Using MIS

technology. When you see a technology article in The Wall you can get on the review committee. Alternatively, when
Street Journal, read it. Don’t just skip it because it’s about there’s a need for a representative from your department to
technology. Read the technology ads too. Many vendors in- discuss needs for the next-generation helpline system, sign
vest heavily in ads that instruct without seeming to. Another up. Or, later in your career, become a member of the busi-
option is to take a seminar or pay attention to professional ness practice technology committee or whatever it is called
events that combine your specialty with technology. For at your organization.
example, when you go to the bankers’ convention, attend a Just working with such groups will add to your knowl-
panel or two on “Mobile Device Use at Banks.” There are al- edge of technology. Presentations made to such groups, dis-
ways sessions like that, and you might make a contact with cussions about uses of technology, and ideas about using IT
similar problems and concerns in another company. for competitive advantage will all add to your IT knowledge.
Probably the best option, if you have the time for it, You’ll gain important contacts and exposure to leaders in
is to get involved as a user representative on technology your organization as well.
committees in your organization. At a company like AllRoad It’s up to you. You get to choose how you relate to
Parts, get involved in the specifications for the iOS app. Or, if technology. But be sure you choose; don’t let your head get
your company is doing a review of its BYOD policy, see if stuck in the sand without thinking about it.

DisCussion Questions

1. Do you agree that the change of technology is relentless? competitive advantage. If you’re going to join one of the
What do you think that means to most business profes- other two groups, explain why, and describe how you’re
sionals? To most organizations? going to accomplish your goal.
2. Think about the three postures toward technology pre- 4. Given your answer to question 2, assume that you’re
sented here. Which camp will you join? Why? in a job interview and the interviewer asks about your
3. Write a two-paragraph memo to yourself justifying your interest in and knowledge of technology. Write a three-
choice in question 2. If you chose to ignore technol- sentence response to the interviewer’s question.
ogy, explain how you will compensate for the loss of

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