Significance

What is information and why is it so important? How does information relate to language and communication? In what sense do animals and machines communicate? Are computers the only information technology? What is the value of information systems to organisations? This book considers the nature of s [...]
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What is information and why is it so important? How does information relate to language and communication? In what sense do animals and machines communicate? Are computers the only information technology? What is the value of information systems to organisations? This book considers the nature of significance and the way it is continually accomplished within activity, communication and representation. It argues that significance is generated at the intersection of signs and systems, which involves the enactment of forma (the substance of a sign), informa (the content of a sign) and performa (the use of signs in coordinated action). In demonstrating the value of this perspective the book employs the innovative approach of considering examples and cases from different times, cultures and species. This improves our understanding of the nature of information, information systems and information technology and the way these phenomena entangle in complex ways within human organisation.