Technological progress is a broad term that encompasses many things, including new machines, appliances, processes, and other forms of specialized knowledge that are useful for one activity (like developing new computer applications) and may have another use (for example improving industrial productivity). Technological change is sometimes accompanied by disruptive innovation, when new machines and processes make old ones obsolete, for example, or when something more economical and efficient becomes available. Technological change is also sometimes referred to as the third revolution, because it has the ability to continue to change the way we do things even after the previous revolution has ended.

A technologist, therefore, is someone whose work falls in the area of information security. The scope of this job may be broad, ranging from diagnostic computer software to industrial equipment to computer software systems and networks. Many technologists find employment with smaller companies that produce and support technologies, to major corporations that develop technologies themselves. Other technologists work for think tanks, publishing information on new advances and innovations. Still others work at the academic level, teaching or conducting research on various technological issues.

Another type of specialist job in the tech industry is freelance work. Freelance projects are those in which a person does not possess an employee-employee relationship, but instead provides independent, self-directed work to the public. This can include data entry, transcription, writing, consulting, web design, blogging, product design, teaching, research, coding, and a variety of other jobs. A good freelancer will be able to accept any and all types of assignments, but may specialize in one or two areas.