ABSTRACT The .changes . coming into the ' workplace in this new century is enormous. The challenge of new technology as observed by workers in modern competitive organizations in. form of high tech jobs outlines a scenario for what • lies, ahead. Thus this research examined the impact of new technology (Information Technology) demands on a group of workers who hitherto had been restricted to the domestic sphere- women. Using quantitative (survey) of and qualitative research techniques (in-depth interviews) and (focus group discussions) from a population of women ' in' their reproductive years (18-50 years) working in IT industries, non IT industries and the (informal sector for

tf-

comparative purposes only), focus group discussions involving men and women, and in-depth interviews of women in- the 3 job categories, this study examined:

a. the peculiar work demands and problems posed by high-tech jobs for women as compared with women in other jobs.

b. the reproductive profile and family circumstances - ■

of women in high-tech jobs low-tech jobs and women

in the.informal, sector.

Jr 3

e.

statistical differences in the reproductive

behavior and general wellness between women in

high-tech jobs and women in other jobs.

the work demands and experiences of women in the

different

groups

and perceived . obstacles.

in

realizing

desired

reproductive choices

and

the

coping strategies

'of the women-- will

also

be

examined.

The perceptions of women and men regarding -the effects of IT in the workplace.

The findings of the . research partially or fully supported many of the hypotheses and the results were discussed from the perspectives of research and policy implication and women's empowerment.