Final answer:
The evolution of information systems indicates a shift towards a post-PC era characterized by the increased importance of mobile devices, cloud computing, and IoT. Business computing in the next generation is likely to emphasize portability, connectivity, and distributed networks, affecting the dynamics between small and large firms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks whether we are currently in a post-PC stage in the evolution of information systems, and what business computing might look like in the future. Reflecting on the transformation from industrial economies to information economies, there is a significant shift in how technology is used and integrated into our lives. The information society is marked by the dominance of service providers and knowledge workers, like software programmers and business consultants, over traditional producers of goods.
The introduction of personal computers in late 1970s and early 1980s and the subsequent rise of the internet has revolutionized the way businesses operate. It could be argued that we have indeed transitioned to a post-PC era where mobile devices, cloud computing, and IoT (Internet of Things) play a significant role. These advancements suggest that business computing in the next generation might focus more on portability, connectivity, and distributed networks.
Additionally, the controversy regarding the size of firms in light of new technologies reflects on the changing dynamics in the business world. The growth of the internet and improved communication technologies could lead to economies where smaller firms can compete at a global level, or conversely, lead to larger firms dominating the market.