Technology is defined by the OECD as “the state of knowledge concerning ways of converting resources into outputs” (OECD, 2015). In other words, technology is the application of knowledge to create products and services that respond to particular needs or problems (David Bennett, Kirit Vaidya, 2002). 

The dti also views technology as the “application of scientific knowledge to solve practical problems, especially to address social, industrial or commercial objectives. Technology may also refer to the use of tools and machines, including the collection of such tools and machinery” (the dti, 2015). 

It is important to emphasise that technology is not a synonym of hardware or technical artefacts, which is a very common misunderstanding. Enos (1991) emphasised that skills, know-how (i.e. scientific and technical knowledge with regard to how to apply or use artefacts), and organisation (i.e. the process that links technical artefact and knowledge) are important elements of technology. In addition, Enos (1991) includes a fourth component, which refers to the object of technology that comprises of product or process. Figure 1-1 shows the different elements of technology, as well as the objects of technology.