The following three technological advancements are responsible for the existence of the information superhighway: biotechnology, new materials, and telematics (informatics and telecommunications). Information technology (IT) such as telecommunications relies on microcomputing and digital signal processing, a wireless system that uses compression to process the electromagnetic spectrum for transmission through fiber optic cable (Bond, 1997). These advancements have been designed not necessarily to promote a peaceful coexistence and international understanding implied in the proceedings of the McBride Commission but they are the driving force behind the global economy. World Bank analysts have pointed out that these technologies decrease the cost of processing, storing, and transmitting information at a rate of 50% per 18 months (Knight et al., 1995). However, interpretations and uses of the technologies are fragmented and restricted. Changes in employment patterns are affected by changes in the costs of telecommunication services and equipment. Similarly, the information superhighway has the capability of increasing opportunities for adaptation among humans. Africans, like other human groups, have been obligated to adapt to changing historical circumstances, sociocultural systems, languages, physical appearances, and worldviews, and so have the interfaces of emerging information technologies transformed their society. This transformation has to be seen at the following four levels: economic adjustment, national agendas, information gatekeeping, and alien penetration.
This article appraises communications as business and examines the effect of new information technology on the productivity of the Black entrepreneur (African American [AA] and African [AB] mid-scale businesspersons) and provides insights into market conditions in both communities and the mindset of the African entrepreneur and implications for partnership management. Further, it describes the Black entrepreneur's access to business information, implications for partnership, and a background for strategic planning. Research shows that there are potential mutual benefits for AB and AA media entrepreneurs, with proper strategic planning and information sharing. A critical analysis of published business magazines, public documents from the National Black Chamber of Commerce, Minority Telecommunication Development Program Report, Federal Communications Commission, Black Business Network, and a working knowledge of information resources and the activities of AA and AB entrepreneurs make up the methodology.
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