Technology can be most broadly defined as the entities, both material and immaterial , created by the application of mental and physical effort in order to achieve some value . In this usage , technology refers to tools and machines that may be used to solve real-world problems. It is a far-reaching term that may include simple tools,such as a crowbar or wooden spoon, or more complex machines, such as a space station or particle accelerator. Tools and machines need not be material ;virtual technology, such as computer software and business methods, fall under this definition of technology . W. Brain Arthur defines technology in a similarly broad way as "a means to fulfill a human purpose".