Systems of the Information Society

Abstract

An inclusive information society needs an infrastructure built upon systems which are in harmony with citizens. This paper discusses some of the contextual issues which need to be addressed to realise this goal. There is a need to strive continually to develop adaptive systems which satisfy the dynamic needs of people. The project management of such development activities must be sensitive to the wider social issues. The development activity must adopt a sociotechnical perspective. It must never be forgotten how vulnerable individuals and society are from insecure and inappropriate information systems. It must be recognised that the social systems that are dependant on information systems to survive can be very unpredictable in terms of the benefits gained and costs incurred by both individuals and society at large.