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Creation of a Network File System
The network file system enabled organizations to share documents and files internally. Files were no longer confined to a single computer for storage. This simplified collaboration, file sharing, and backing up work. -
Passage of Americans with Disabilities Act
Passage of this law prevented discrimination on the basis of disability. This has affected hiring practices, transportation, required accommodations, communications, access, and facilities of businesses and organizations. -
Web-Based Email
The first use of electronic communications through internet technology eventually altered the way nearly every organization communicates. Email has simplified communication and made it faster and easier to archive. -
Broadband Internet
The speed and increased availability of cable and DSL internet in both business and home settings increased the internet working potential for organizations. Internet in homes also increased remote working possibilities. -
Wireless Internet
The advent of wireless internet connectivity altered the physical infrastructure of the office and its networks. Furthermore, availability of wireless networks outside the office enabled productivity from alternate locations. -
9/11/2001 Terror Attacks
The terror attacks are the most significant and noteworthy event of this time period, as the country was shaken to its core and wars followed. As a result, travel regulations throughout the country were tightened. The ensuing passage of the Patriot Act altered surveillance and security while adding requirements of businesses to report suspicious acts or transactions. -
Skype
While videoconferencing technology had existed for many years, the creation of Skype, as well as increased distribution of webcams and microphones, made videoconferencing cheaper and more accessible. This increased capabilities of working remotely or from home. -
Facebook (Social Media)
Facebook was not the first social media network created, but it became the largest and most influential. Social media has changed public relations, communications, marketing, and advertising for many organizations. -
Release of iPhone
While some smartphone technology existed prior to the iPhone, Apple's release of the iPhone, combined with Android and Blackberry technologies, revolutionized cellular phones. Smartphones have increased working capabilities while traveling and at home. As mobile phone usage became a primary means of accessing a device with internet, many businesses have tailored their products to mobile devices. -
Economic Recession (Housing Crisis)
A collapse in the housing industry led to a sharp economic downturn and extended recession. The stock market plummeted, causing major financial woes for many individuals, businesses, and organizations. Unemployment was high as many businesses closed their doors permanently. -
Passage of Affordable Care Act
This significant overhaul of the healthcare system provided millions of previously uninsured individuals with healthcare coverage. In some instances, this eased the burden of employers to provide healthcare. It has also caused difficulties for some organizations. -
Penn State Child Abuse Scandal
The child sexual abuse scandal at Penn State University was the biggest such scandal of its kind to that point. While this scandal may have disproportionately affected youth-serving organizations, it has caused many businesses, educational institutions, and and youth organizations to enact more strict guidelines and policies to protect children and prevent a similar scandal. -
COVID-19 Global Pandemic
The global COVID-19 pandemic, which started in 2019 and spread to the United States in 2020, has had a significant health and economic impact. Businesses were shuttered due to the pandemic and unemployment rose significantly. Stocks fell but have steadily recovered. Millions of individuals now work remotely, and those who work in person utilize unprecedented safety measures.