Information technology in business processes

Information technology (IT), in its myriad forms, is having a profound and palpable impact on IT users and their environments. Proposes and expounds on a framework of the roles of IT as an initiator, a facilitator, or an enabler. Illustrates the utilization of this framework by a review of the impacts of IT. Examines briefly the growth of IT's impact on business processes through specific forms of technology — particularly the computing, telecommunication, and imaging technologies. Reviews IT's influences on organizations and management. Suggests that a full and thorough understanding of the roles of IT will also enable systematic identification and assessment of the risks and costs relationships involved with implementing IT in business processes in an organization.