All aspects of technology including the areas of Communication, Transportation, Construction and Manufacturing are necessary in order to understand the complex world we live in. Technology is used by people to improve their surroundings. It is also a knowledge of applying tools and machines to do tasks more efficiently and using knowledge, tools, and systems to make our lives easier and better. People use technology to improve their ability to do work. Through communication technology, people communicate better. We travel in more comfort and speed as a result of transportation technology.  Our buildings are better through the use of construction technology. Manufacturing technology allows us to make more and better products. Technological advancements need to be responsive to organizational, community and human needs.

Technological Systems

Humans have basic needs which include food, water, clothing, shelter, and transportation. Civilization thrives and looks into the future through the integration of four basic technological systems.
 

The purpose of a house is to shelter humans from the harsh elements of their environment. Transportation provides ways to move between destinations in the fastest, safest and most reliable way. Communication improves the speed, ease and reliability of all spoken, written and electronic communication. What does manufacturing provide?

Manufacturing companies are in the business of making something. The resources, processes, and the products they produce can be different, but all manufacturing companies convert raw materials or parts and turn them into a finished product.
 

The Evolution of Manufacturing

Before the Industrial Revolution most goods and articles were made by hand. There were relatively few consumers  and mass produced products were not in demand. Items that we consider essential such as clothing and furniture were made by hand, one at a time. Today, the definition of manufacturing has changed. Our population is larger and people's needs have changed. Most of us no longer have the time or skills to make our own clothing or build our own furniture. We work in specialized areas and rely on manufacturing companies to produce the goods that we need. Because the population and demand for products is so a large, manufacturing companies must produce items in large quantities. Manufacturing is also an important part of the U.S. economy, because it not only produces goods and products for people to use, but also provides jobs and income. 

Most of the products that you use every day are the result of some company that is in the business of manufacturing: The desk or table you are sitting at, your school books, your television and radio, your computer, and your favorite CD.

How Do Manufacturing Companies Work?

Manufacturing companies can be large or small. They can manufacture a single product or a whole line or products. Regardless of size and purpose, however, all manufacturing companies have to respond to many demands and trends, such as: 
 

There's a lot to learn about the world of manufacturing. Most manufacturing companies are complex organizations that offer a wide variety of career choices. Explore these opportunities as you progress through your study of manufacturing.