The impacts of computing on the work of managers, data analysts and clerks

Abstract

The impacts of computer use on the character of jobs were studied through a survey of 1200 managers, data analysts (e.g., urban planners), and clerks in 42 municipal governments. Most respondents use computer-based reports and attribute job enlarging influences to computer use. Respondents also attribute increases in job pressure, but not closeness of supervision, to computing. These effects increase with the centrality of computing in one's work. Computer use has perceptible, but not dominant effects on the jobs of many people who use the technology. Overall, respondents report that computer use enlarges their jobs, but does not profoundly alter the character of their jobs.