Technology Definition
Firefox is an open source web browser program for most operating systems like windows, Linux and Mac OS. Firefox is a free web browser that derives its code base from Mozilla which also distributes it. It has, among others, features that can enable the user to block pop-up windows, open new tabs (tabbed browsing) as well as provide privacy and security measures (Shelly, 2006).
Previously known as firebird, it came up in the year 2004 and has grown since capturing 20% of internet browser market by 2008 while its alternative, Microsoft’s Internet Explorer, had about 70%.
Business Applications
Firefox browser can be used to research on information relating to the relevant markets for the businesses, for instance the prevailing market prices of a good or service or the taxation policies. In addition, it creates an advertising platform for businesses by enabling businesses to provide their profiles through their websites and blogs, making marketing of products or services quite efficient (Shelly, 2006).
With over 450 million users in the world, the browser makes global interaction and networking easier, which also could expand the potential or customer base for a business. Online purchases, booking of flights, making hotel reservations are just but some of the ways in which a browser makes a business transaction simpler (Deek, & McHugh, 2008).
Business and the Society Implication
Given the increasing users of the browser over the years, businesses will tend to thrive from the wider customer base. Advertising, especially of consumable products like beer, clothes, might cause a behavioral change to those using them. The effect of the use of this particular technology software has improved the communication and amplified the uptake of knowledge due to easy access on-line via internet browsers.
References
Deek, F. P., & McHugh, J. A. (2008). Open source: Technology and policy. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Shelly, G. B. (2006). Mozilla Firefox: Introductory concepts and techniques. Boston, MA: Thomson Course Technology.
