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The creation of the Internet has caused everything to change especially the business world. The future of business is now.

1. How has the Internet changed the nature of businesses and organizations?

The Internet has changed the way everyone in a business or organization does their job. Within the company it can be used to hold meetings, share information and files, make plans and solve problems without having to be face-to-face. This allows communication to be easy, immediate and inexpensive which ultimately makes a business more efficient and effective. A company can gain a competitive advantage because of increased speed and a wide variety of information to make decisions. There are many different ways to market a product or service online, sending out advertisement emails, having the company website on various search engines or even starting on eBay to see if there is a demand. Source


2. The Internet and being “online” has allowed for diversity and multiculturalism within organizations. Explain.

When an employer is recruiting employees, the Internet connects them to people all over the world so they can find the absolute best person with the qualifications needed for the specific position. When employees communicate globally it breaks down stereotypes and make them more aware of different cultures which reduces ethnocentrism. A company can benefit from all the different perspectives that everyone brings to the table. It also stops prejudice and the “glass ceiling effect” as they do not know exactly who they are talking to. Source


3. Relate McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y and Argyris’ Theory of Adult Personality to the way employees work and behave in their jobs.

McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y identifies two distinct types of employees. People that have the characteristics of Theory X generally dislike work, lack ambition, are irresponsible, resist change and prefer to follow than lead. On the other hand, people that have characteristics of Theory Y are creative, willing to work and accept responsibility and capable of self control and direction. Argyris’ Theory of Adult Personality believes that assuming people will work more efficiently when tasks become clear inhibits self-actualization. He also thinks that when a person in a higher position controls everything then workers become dependent and passive. Managers must treat their employees positively and as responsible adults. Also, when work is planned and directed by a supervisor, Argyris says they are being set up for psychological failure, it would be better if workers define their own goals. Source


4. Explain how the Internet has made business more global than ever.

The Internet has broken down the barrier of distance. It can connect a company to its suppliers and customers no matter where they are. This helps build and manage relationships with strategic partners and contracts are continuously maintained and fulfilled. It is beneficial to people who shop online that would like to buy products from any place in the world. Also, especially for people who are disabled in some way as they can now do almost anything from the comfort and convenience of their own home. Source


5. Ethics, social responsibility and the Internet.

When online you should use the same rules and morals that you do in real life and also be sensitive to other cultures you may encounter. These are the Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics:

    1. Thou Shalt Not Use A Computer To Harm Other People.
    2. Thou Shalt Not Interfere With Other People’s Computer Work.
    3. Thou Shalt Not Snoop Around In Other People’s Computer Files.
    4. Thou Shalt Not Use A Computer To Steal.
    5. Thou Shalt Not Use A Computer To Bear False Witness.
    6. Thou Shalt Not Copy Or Use Proprietary Software For Which You have Not Paid.
    7. Thou Shalt Not Use Other People’s Computer Resources Without Authorization Or Proper Compensation.
    8. Thou Shalt Not Appropriate Other People’s Intellectual Output.
    9. Thou Shalt Think About The Social Consequences Of The Program You Are Writing Or The System You Are Designing.
    10. Thou Shalt Always Use A Computer In Ways That Insure Consideration And Respect For Your Fellow Humans.
Source


6. Can the Internet benefit and/or hurt entrepreneurship?

The Internet has allowed the opportunity for many new kinds of entrepreneurships to be created. There are websites to help you get started and even eBay has encouraged people to start their own small businesses from home. These sites are quick, inexpensive and easy to set up and help you get your name out there faster. Some companies are able to be more successful over the Internet than they would in a store which saves the cost of renting space and hiring store employees. Running your business over the Internet makes your work more flexible, you can work whatever hours you feel like and be at home when you need to be. Source


7. More and more people are working from home, thanks to the Internet. How do you develop and maintain a quality workforce if you rarely see your employees?

In order for employees to stay loyal to their company employers should offer benefits (such as healthcare), bonuses and rewards and recognition programs. They should all try to get together in person at least once a year. Supervisors and managers should be up to date with leadership techniques and diversity training. Employers should also make sure that all staff members are happy with the way the company is and how it plans to be in the future. Source


8. “Online community” is a contradiction in terms. How can one hope to develop synergy and teamwork in a virtual world?

Begin with messaging or emailing partners in this online community to personalize the experience and to start to trust one another. Everyone should then learn what their specific task is so they can focus on it and know what other people are working on. Everyone who is a part of the team must be willing and have a positive attitude, they must also let everyone have a chance at speaking their own opinion. There are special programs designed just for assisting teams with accomplishing projects together. Source




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