The "Ordinariness" of Tech

Technology is undeniably captivating—a dynamic force that connects, streamlines, and enhances human potential. However, its brilliance is a double-edged sword, serving as both a blessing and a curse to itself and to those who wield it. Allow me to explore this duality.

A Blessing and a Curse

Technology is a blessing because of its transformative power. It has revolutionised industries, from healthcare to finance, by creating tools that improve efficiency and open new possibilities. However, this same prominence can be a curse. Tech often overestimates its importance, fostering the idea that it is the ultimate solution to all problems. This hubris can cause imbalances, where its role overshadows other vital sectors.
For its practitioners and beneficiaries—myself included—tech is a gateway to opportunity. As a software engineer and data scientist, I have seen firsthand how tech has broadened the scope of industries, creating vibrant spaces for innovation and growth. One of my favourite advantages is the ability to work remotely. Beyond avoiding daily commutes, it has allowed me to collaborate with fascinating businesses across states, countries, and continents. This global connectivity is a remarkable gift.
However, the problem is in external expectations. The hype around technology can create a fragile dependency. During the early “tech boom,” the prevailing sentiment was to “build an app for everything,” and startups thrived from this trend. Now, with the rise of AI, the scene has changed considerably. Non-AI-based tech innovations struggle to stay relevant, suggesting a correction that could have a profound impact on the industry. This does not mean tech is doomed—far from it—but the pendulum of progress sways both ways.

The Ordinariness of Tech

When I talk about the “ordinariness” of tech, I’m not downplaying its value. My career, built on designing tech systems, shows its strength. Instead, I’m encouraging a perspective—acknowledging that tech is just one part of a bigger picture. Every sector, from healthcare to agriculture, deals with a fundamental aspect of human life. Tech’s role is distinct in its visibility and flexibility, but it’s not the most important.
Consider healthcare: tech facilitates patient database management, appointment scheduling, and advanced research, making hospitals more efficient. Without these systems, healthcare would struggle to function effectively. But the reverse is equally true—without doctors, nurses, and medical expertise, tech’s tools would be useless. The same logic applies to agriculture. Farmers sustain life itself, and no app can replace their work. Tech is an enabler, not a necessity on par with food, health, or shelter.

A Call for Balance

My point is straightforward: technology is remarkable in its ability to enhance, but it is commonplace in other industries. It exists to serve, not to dominate. As someone who has prospered during the tech boom, I encourage us to recognise its contributions without exaggerating its importance. By acknowledging technology’s ordinariness, we cultivate a healthier ecosystem where all sectors—healthcare, agriculture, education, and beyond—collaborate harmoniously.
Tech’s brilliance lies in its ability to empower, not to overshadow. Let’s embrace its potential while honouring the equal importance of every field that sustains and enriches human life. In this balance, we envision a future where innovation serves humanity holistically, creating a world that thrives not solely because of technology, but because of the collective strength of all its components.