Using this raw material to build better looms and spinning machines established the comparative advantages which put some European countries ahead of the rest of the world. This means, however, that developing countries can no longer expect to base their development on low wages. They, too, must learn to base development on applying knowledge. Clearly, applying knowledge to everyday business means that the people working in this business must understand and master the requisite technologies. This requires creating a labor force that is capable of dealing with information technology.
Word processors become the paper and pencil of the information age.
Spreadsheets replace the slide rule of engineers and the calculating machines of office workers. Data bases replace cabinets full of papers. Those unable to operate these new tools are handicapped in the modern world. Indeed, the introduction of technology on a large scale often creates new problems to be addressed. There is a price to be paid.