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Chapter 1 Introduction to Information Technology 7
a measure of the amount of data that can travel on a communication
system. Just as a large artery can carry more blood cells than a small
capillary, a high-bandwidth Internet connection can carry more data at
one time than a low-bandwidth connection.
Reach
Communication programs that share video, voice, and data are
accessible to anyone with a computer or smartphone and an Internet
connection. In developing countries, people who may have never owned
a radio or television now often have smartphones. These devices allow
global communication, which opens a wide view of world culture.
Advantages
The amount, intimacy, and power of computer-based communication
have been enormously affected by social media through innovations
such as Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and LinkedIn, as shown in Figure 1-4.
Participation in Facebook has been described as an ongoing virtual reality
show where the users are the entertainers as well as the audience.
Disadvantages
Internet-based communication has led to an epidemic of crime,
including fraud, and unethical behavior, such as cyberbullying. In many
cases, cyberbullying can be a crime, but it is always unethical behavior.
E-mail scams such as phishing seek to steal a person’s identity and use
Pieter Beens/Shutterstock.com
Figure 1-4. Smartphones have been a key part of the growth of social media,
which itself greatly affected computer-based communication.
Architect
An architect uses
information technology
in every phase of design
and presentation. The use
of 3D modeling software
to design and develop
structures, as well as
the use of databases
to identify the proper
materials for strength and
stability, is an ongoing
process for architects.
Architects often use word
processing software to
create documents that will
serve as communication
with the clients and the
building contractors. They
may also communicate
using e-mail, the Internet,
and by smartphones.
Career
Skills