General purpose packages (GPPs) like Word, Excel, and databases have significantly changed jobs in the workplace. Employees must receive training on new software skills, which can be an expensive initial cost for businesses. However, businesses see benefits from increased efficiency, faster task completion times, and greater productivity once staff learn to fully utilize the new software. While computers allow electronic document storage to reduce paper usage, many legal and backup documents still require printing, so the paperless world has not been fully realized despite environmental benefits. Businesses must also account for ongoing running costs like maintenance and supplies, as well as future replacement costs as technology advances.

1. General Purpose Packages Implications of GPPs in the workplace