Chapter 2. Moving Beyond the Current Situation

In surveying the trends that are most strongly influencing the evolution of information technology in the 1990s, a common theme has emerged from our research efforts, research sponsors, and related literature: Advances in information technology provide opportunities for dramatically increased connectivity, enabling new forms of interorganizational relationships and enhanced group productivity.

—Stuart E. Madnick, in The Corporation of the 1990s

Advanced information technology has brought about the capability for unparalleled, dramatic improvements in productivity, cost control, capital utilization, and customer satisfaction while opening up new opportunities for growth. Global networks now exist that allow simultaneous communication within and among companies worldwide while work proceeds. Software operating systems, database access systems, and application packages evolve with advances in networking, mass storage, and computer speed and capacity. This progress in technology continually brings about new capabilities.