ABSTRACT
The distinction between first- and second-stage computerization provides a basis for judging how far organizations have progressed in applying modern technology. The capability of modern computerization is not restricted to eliminating tasks formerly performed by low-level clerical personnel but, rather, embraces a wide range of computational tasks. Under earlier arrangements, it was necessary to assemble large amounts of information, perform calculations and prepare statistical summaries, accounting, inventory, and purchasing reports, budget estimates, labor utilization schedules, and the like. Old-era computerization altered the structure significantly by abridging the amount of work required at all levels but principally at the lowest operational level, while increasing the amount of information at all levels. New-era computerization introduces more dramatic changes. Organizational change is a concomitant, and often a prerequisite, of computerization and frequently contributes to redefinitions of work assignments and the creation of new job hierarchies.
