ABSTRACT
It is not surprising that computer workers have such naive beliefs in technology as a force for progress. In manufacturing, banking and retailing, the introduction of computerised technology is having a devastating effect on the workforce. Of the 70,000 or more computer workers in Australia, most are employed by the computer companies or by user organisations. Marxist accounts of computing, as with other labour processes, have focused almost exclusively on deskilling. From the late 1960s many more women moved into computing. What made this possible was a shortage of skilled labour. Equal opportunities does not mean that women go into companies on equal terms. A number of women in computing have overcome the stumbling blocks and reached senior managerial positions. The logic of the situation would suggest a need for one union covering all workers in the industry. Since this is unlikely, it is at least important that they ensure that the unions cater to their specific needs.
