Digital technologies at work are great, aren’t they? The development of information and communication technologies (ICT) and their relevance in the world of work

The digitization of working life and communication and information technologies (ICTs) are now essential components of working environments and important working tools. ICTs affect all kinds of work. Many of these influences are positive (e.g., improved work processes, better access to knowledge). On the other hand, ICTs may also be responsible for increased job demands and decreases in the quality of working life. The chapter begins with a short history of ICT at work. An overview over the use of ICTs for individual and group work is given. The positive and negative outcomes of ICTs are described at the levels of the individual, the job, the organization, and outside of work. Finally, the sociomaterial approach as an exemplary approach for job design and the management of ICT-related change processes are briefly described.