THE CHANGING ROLES OF THE SECRETARY IN THE ICT ERA PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTSTHE CHANGING ROLES OF THE SECRETARY IN THE ICT ERA PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS

THE CHANGING ROLES OF THE SECRETARY IN THE ICT ERA PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTSTHE CHANGING ROLES OF THE SECRETARY IN THE ICT ERA PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS

CHAPTER ONE

1.0     INTRODUCTION

On the early days the secretarial profession was limited to typing, writing and transcribing of shorthand only.  But today, it is far beyond this, it involved functions as sorting and retrieving of information passing on information and so on with the help of manual electronic equipment.  A secretary assistance to an executive, possessing mastery of office skills and ability to assume responsibilities without direct supervision who display initiative, exercises judgment and makes decision within the scope of his/her authority.  The secretary also handles more office jobs, makes and takes decision on behalf of his/her organization.  But because of the aforementioned about information communication technology, there are controversies about the future of the secretary in information communication technology.

The term information communication technology was first widely employed in 1981 to describe the equipment and system, which were being introduced in both private and public sectors, to create, store and distribute information since, then, the term has abbreviated to (I.C.T.).

The key feature of modern technology is its ability to deal with information in one form or the other.  Trend has been towards using ways of interconnecting the various types of equipments so as to integrate their functions and manage them effectively.  Underpinning the definition of “ICT” lies on the modern which provides a helpful explanation of the way in which computers process information.

Information communication technology as the broadly based technology needed to support information systems, which many people today refers to as computer equipment, which aids to increase profit margin and enhance planning, and organization by the use of very fast, accurate and flexible devices in the business society.  Efficiency in offices many people believe, is a vital factor in the well being of an organization as it can affect productivity.

THE CHANGING ROLES OF THE SECRETARY IN THE ICT ERA PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTSTHE CHANGING ROLES OF THE SECRETARY IN THE ICT ERA PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS