Final answer:
When managing technology, important issues include mitigating the digital divide, addressing security risks, and establishing ethical practices to manage social and environmental impacts of emerging technologies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Managing hardware and software technology presents multiple challenges, including the digital divide, security risks, and the ethical implications of emerging technologies. The digital divide exacerbates inequality by limiting access to technology for certain populations, both locally and globally, leading to social and economic implications. Additionally, security risks such as data theft, cyber aggression, and privacy loss are increasingly prevalent as our reliance on technology grows. Therefore, individuals and businesses alike must be prepared for the inevitable yet unpredictable risks associated with technological advancements. Ethical considerations also play a fundamental role, as corporations are faced with establishing responsible practices in an environment where technology evolves quicker than regulatory measures can be implemented.
Particularly in the context of a business, the reliance on technology can have significant impacts on customers and revenues when devices fail, as shown in Figure 8.7 where business operations can be critically affected by malfunctioning technology. In terms of social responsibility, corporations must navigate complex ethical terrains to ensure their technological practices do not harm society or the environment.