Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The role of secretaries in modern office settings has evolved significantly with the rapid advancement of technology. This research project aims to explore the impact of modern office technologies on the work of secretaries in Edo North, Nigeria. The study will focus on the challenges faced by secretaries in adapting to and utilizing modern office technologies effectively. A mixed-methods approach will be employed to gather data, including surveys and interviews with secretaries working in various organizations in Edo North. The research will investigate the specific technologies commonly used in office settings, such as email systems, document management software, and virtual meeting platforms. The study will also examine the training and support provided to secretaries for using these technologies and the perceived barriers to their effective utilization. By identifying the challenges faced by secretaries in adopting modern office technologies, this research aims to provide insights that can inform the development of training programs and support mechanisms to enhance their skills and productivity in the workplace.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background to the study

For decades now, fast changes have been taking place in all facets of human life including the office environment. This is as a result of technological advancement. Every office in today’s business world, be it government, industry or other human endeavors, require facts and accurate information for quick decision-making. The office worker, including the secretary, expects certain support from the organization into which he/she is employed. This support can be technological (machines and equipment) and human. In offices of past, manager’s dictated memos and letters and secretaries typed them. Most recently, business have developed word processing centers and relied on personal computers and even electronic mail in an effort to lessen the need for secretarial support and make the employee-secretary very productive (Ezoem, 1995; Osuala, 2004).

As a result of changes in technology, the role of secretaries in business has changed tremendously from that of typewriting and shorthand dictation, answering of telephone calls and processing of mails. Today’s secretaries are exposed to office technology including the internet that make work much easier and knowledge more accessible (Edwin, 2008). It is now easier to send messages by telex, electronic mails (e-mails), fax and telephones. Other office gadgets available to the secretary are photo-copy machines, duplicating machines, dictating machines, printers, among others. This is the era of computers and information technology which has become an enabler of greater convenience. Three of the most popular types of computer software programs are word processing, which help the user to write and edit memos, letters and reports,