Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is defined as a host of    systems, equipment and materials essentially computer based which are used to electronically achieve communication goals and varied services. ICT convergence has given rise to technologies such as the internet, video conferencing, groupware, intranets and smart phones. ICT enable organizations to be more flexible in the way they are structured and in the way they work.

Ngurukwem, (2005) observed that ICT is a convergence of technologies that include the computer and microprocessor technology, communication satellite technologies and networking technology.

Midmarket (2004) indicated that Information and Communication Technology is an umbrella term that includes any communication device or application encompassing, radio, television, cellular phones, computer and network, hardware and software, satellite system et cetera as well as various services and applications associated with them such as video conferencing and distant learning.

According to Kanter (2002), Information and Communication Technology is the function of developing, acquiring, testing, implementing and maintaining

electronic system. These system includes, database, application and procedure to support the business needs of the organization in the capture, storage, retrieval, transfer, computation, processing and dissemination of information. It also comprises of evaluation, acquisition, tendering, leasing, licensing and disposal of software. It is the technology required for information processing. The use of electronic computer in particular and computer software to convert, store,  protect, process, transmit and retrieve information anywhere at any time.

According to Okute (2001), Information and Communication Technology is concerned with the aspect of managing and processing information through the use of electronic computers and computer software to convert, store, protect, process, transmit and retrieve information. It is the handling and processing of information for use by means of electronic and communication gadgets such as computers, cameras, telephones etc.

Atakpa (2010) stated that secretarial functions everywhere in the world have undergone a lot of technical changes. As a result, modern office equipment which gives the secretary the opportunity to increase her efficiency abound. Many office functions and secretarial duties which were previously done manually have been mechanized. Examples are the punch card machines, accounting machines, duplicating machines etcetera. Thus, the diversities of these office technologies require the secretary to possess new skills and sub-skills to enable him/her to be relevant in the modern office.