What are the components and types of information and communication technology?

Elements of Information and Communication Technology: The development of modern civilization is dependent on the application of information and communication technology. Computing, microelectronics, telecommunications, nanotechnology, bioinformatics, e-commerce, e-government etc. are closely related to information and communication technology. Database development technology, software development technology, network, printing and reprographic technology, information and storage technology are some of the elements required to use the different aspects. These elements are-

(i) Hardware or machinery

(ii) Software or Programs

(iii) Related persons including humanware or computer users

iv) Data or Information

v) Network or communication media and

(vi) Procedures etc.

Types of information and communication technology: Information and communication technology can be divided into several categories. namely

(i) Computing or information systems : All types of electronic data processing including computing where artificial intelligence and expert systems are used are under the purview of information and communication technology.

( ii) Broadcasting : Radio, television which broadcasts one-way information to a large population belongs to information and communication technology.

(ii) Telecommunication: Mainly two-way data communication on telephone and from business to business. All types of telecommunications including fixed telephones and mobile or cellular phones are covered by ICT.