 
by Indira Nawagamuwa
Internet has become a big part of our lives because of the services
it provides. Anyone with access to the Internet on their mobile phone or
the computer can conduce research at their pace as well as receive
latest news and information as they occur. We are also able to shop
online, watch movies, be entertained and get fashion tips.
Arguably, the main advantage of the Internet is its ability to induce
both human and technological abilities. The Internet can amplify
potentials in many ways. Seemingly, employers are experiencing accrued
benefits from it.
Most organisations have access to electronic mail (email) and video
conferencing thereby reducing costs on mail, transport and phone calls.
“Large companies can connect with employees, suppliers, and partners
around the globe, and small businesses can find their customers anywhere
in the world. Businesses can hire knowledge workers almost regardless of
where they are, greatly expanding employment opportunities for people in
the United States, and giving developing nations the ability to become
economic powerhouses by providing information technology services to the
rest of the world,” (Bill Gates, 2000).
The services have reduced production and continuity costs. As
mentioned earlier, access to the Internet is not only limited to mobile
phones and computers, the Internet has made a leeway through the use of
digital TVs that are readily available to the consumer.
To bank on this, many technology firms in partnership with their
governments are developing communication technology via satellite to
enhance worldwide Internet access.
This development has led to rapid increase in the number of websites
by business firms, organisations and the public.
As a result of increase in web access, home shopping has become the
housewife’s favourite resource as one can easily avoid long queues by
using credit cards in buying goods. In addition, major supermarkets are
now on-line and offering home delivery services.
This has enabled the consumer to purchase best products at the right
and affordable price. Before the advent of the Internet, it was too
expensive to communicate with relatives and friends across the globe.
Today, Internet communication has been made cheaper. It is even
easier and cheaper to use the Internet to communicate across continents
than it is to communicate on phone to someone in your town. Also, people
with shared interests can now share information on social Web sites like
‘Facebook’ and other social websites.
However, with special Internet access tools, people with special
disabilities can also communicate on the Internet.
However, the Internet has also brought into focus a debate about its
infringement into the privacy of the society. The Internet has managed
to be the biggest source of political propaganda, racism, and other
controversial or illegal material.
The infringement of copyright material has undoubtedly been the
biggest problem. With everyone having information access via the
Internet, which is almost impossible to protect, piracy has become a
widespread phenomenon on the web. |
